How to Watch PBS Outside USA [5 Easy Steps]

Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) is an American TV network that broadcasts and distributes shows. This free, non-commercial network features programs like Masters, BBC World News, PBS NewsHour, Nature and many others. Additionally, PBS operates its own channels including PBS HD, Sprout and PBS Satellite services. In this blog, we will guide you on how to watch PBS outside USA in 6 easy steps.

However, you can’t watch PBS outside the USA due to location restrictions. If you try to access PBS from outside the USA, you’ll get an error message:

“We’re sorry, but this video is not available.”

To watch PBS outside USA you need to have a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN which can help in accessing PBS from anywhere in the world by going around the geo-restrictions set in place by PBS.

A VPN will hide your original IP with a US IP when connected to a server in USA which will help you bypass the geo blocks easily.

5 Simple Steps to Watch PBS Outside USA

To watch PBS outside the USA, simply follow these 5 easy steps:

Subscribe to ExpressVPN.
Download and install the ExpressVPN app on your device.
Log in to the app with your credentials.
Connect to a server located in the USA.
Open the PBS website or app and start streaming.

Why is a VPN Necessary to Watch PBS Outside USA?

PBS is only available to watch in the US because of copyrights. Therefore, you need a VPN to unblock and watch PBS outside the USA.

A VPN hides your real IP address and gives you a new one from a different location. For instance, if you select a US server, your internet traffic goes through that server.

This way, when you access PBS, it thinks you’re in the USA and lets you watch the content instead of showing an error message.

For example, when you choose a US server to watch PBS, the VPN hides your real IP address and makes PBS think you’re in the USA.

This way, when you open the PBS website or app, you won’t see any error messages. Plus, you can enjoy high-speed streaming and unlimited bandwidth for your favorite shows and movies.

3 Best VPNs to Watch PBS Outside USA

Below are some of the best, tried and tested VPNs that you should use to watch PBS outside USA:

1. ExpressVPN – The Best VPN to Watch PBS Outside USA

ExpressVPN is a great choice for VPN services because it offers strong security, fast speeds, and a large number of servers. It’s perfect for streaming TV shows and movies, and it’s very user-friendly.

With over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, ExpressVPN lets you easily get a US IP address to watch PBS. It has servers in major US cities, ensuring smooth streaming. When we connected to a US server, the network performed well, maintaining 80% of its speed, which is ideal for streaming.

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.

ExpressVPN also offers features like Threat Manager, Split Tunneling, and Stealth Servers. Its MediaStreamer helps with devices that don’t support VPN apps.

ExpressVPN works on many devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Fire TV, and more. You can connect up to eight devices simultaneously.

We tested ExpressVPN with PBS and found that it provided smooth, uninterrupted streaming. Pricing starts at $6.67 per month with an annual plan that includes extra free months, plus a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Surfshark VPN – Unlimited Connections for Streaming PBS

Surfshark VPN is a great choice for its strong security and the ability to connect unlimited devices at the same time. This budget VPN has over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, including the USA, ensuring fast service and budget-friendly plans.

Using Surfshark with the WireGuard protocol, we achieved 86% of the original speed, making it perfect for high-quality streaming. In our tests, Surfshark’s US servers provided excellent streaming quality with no buffering issues for PBS.

Accessing PBS 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 includes SmartDNS technology for devices that don’t support VPN apps, split tunneling, and ad blocking. It supports many devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, allowing unlimited device connections. It also works well with other streaming devices like Roku and Firestick.

Surfshark is affordable, starting at just $2.19 per month, and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial.

3. NordVPN – Popular Choice for Streaming PBS Outside USA

NordVPN is well-regarded for its strong security and excellent performance. With 6,448 servers in 111 countries, including many in the USA, NordVPN ensures fast and reliable connections. It maintains 90% of your original speed, which is great for streaming.

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 allows you to stream on up to 10 devices at once and offers features like Meshnet and SmartDNS for easy connections and bypassing restrictions. It uses AES-256-bit encryption, has a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a no-logs policy to keep your data secure.

In our tests, NordVPN’s US servers provided fast connections and high-quality streaming with no buffering issues. It works on all major devices and operating systems, including Android TV, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, and Roku.

NordVPN’s plans start at $3.39 per month, and it includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial, offering a good balance of features, coverage, and cost.

How We Tested These VPNs to Watch PBS Outside USA

To find the best VPNs for streaming PBS outside the USA, we carried out detailed tests focusing on the following aspects:

Reliability: We checked each VPN on various servers over several weeks to make sure they consistently provided access to PBS without interruptions.
Speed: We tested the VPN speeds during different times of the day to ensure smooth streaming with no buffering or delays.
Privacy and Security: We evaluated key security features such as a kill switch, no-logs policy, and malware protection. We also conducted tests to identify any security vulnerabilities and ensure a secure connection.
Cost: We compared the pricing and features of different VPNs to identify those offering good value for money without being too costly.
Server Locations: We tested servers in the USA to ensure reliable access to PBS and good connectivity for uninterrupted streaming.
Device Compatibility: We used the VPNs on various devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, smart TVs, and streaming devices. We made sure they worked well on multiple devices at the same time and provided a smooth user experience.

By concentrating on these factors, we determined the best VPNs to help you access PBS outside the USA.

To sign up for PBS from outside the USA, follow these simple steps:

Choose one of the top-rated VPNs mentioned in this guide. We recommend using ExpressVPN.
After buying a VPN subscription, log in to your VPN account.
Connect to a US server to access PBS.

Once connected, go to PBS.org and click on “Sign In” in the upper left corner.

Click on “Create a PBS Account” under the “Sign in with PBS Account” button.

Enter your first name, last name, email address, and password (must be at least 8 characters long and include both letters and numbers).

Click “Create an Account.” PBS will send a verification code to the email address you provided.
Check your email for the six-digit code from PBS.
Return to the PBS.org sign-in page and enter the six-digit code in the designated box.
Click “Continue.” If the code is correct, your account will be verified, and you’ll be redirected to a confirmation screen. After a few moments, you’ll be taken to the PBS.org homepage.

You’re now ready to start watching PBS content with your new account.

Pricing Plans for PBS Subscription

You can enjoy top PBS content anytime, anywhere with the free PBS app. Stream your favorite PBS shows on-demand and watch live broadcasts from your local station on any device.

Setting up an account is free and comes with benefits like higher-quality video streaming. Once you’re logged in, you can watch videos in HD for a better viewing experience.

PBS vs Other Popular Streaming Services

Here’s a comparison of PBS with other popular streaming services to help you decide which one fits your needs:

PBS

Content: Provides a wide range of educational programs, documentaries, and popular TV shows.
Pricing: Free to access, with no subscription fees required.
Strengths: Completely free with no hidden charges. Offers high-quality streaming of educational and entertainment content supported by occasional ads.

Tubi TV

Content: Features a broad selection of movies and TV shows at no cost.
Pricing: Completely free, with no subscription fees.
Strengths: 100% free with no hidden costs. Provides a diverse range of content with short ads.

Starz Play

Content: Offers a mix of movies, TV shows, and exclusive Starz originals.
Pricing: $8.99 per month or $74.99 annually (with savings on the yearly plan).
Strengths: Strong selection of original series and popular films. New users can enjoy a 7-day free trial.

CBS

Strengths: Wide range of CBS network shows, live TV, sports, CBS All Access originals, and exclusive events.
Content: Includes live TV, on-demand episodes of CBS shows, exclusive originals, and sports coverage.
Pricing: $5.99 per month with ads or $9.99 per month without ads. Discounts are available for annual plans.

How to Watch PBS Outside the USA on Any Device

To watch PBS outside the USA on different devices, follow these simple steps:

How to Watch PBS on Windows and Mac

Stream PBS on Windows:

Choose a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN with US servers. Download and install the VPN on your computer.
Open the VPN, log in, and connect to a US server.
Open your web browser and go to the PBS website.
Enter your PBS details to log in or create a new account.
You can now watch PBS on your Windows PC with the VPN connected.

Stream PBS on Mac:

Choose a VPN like ExpressVPN with US servers. Download and install the VPN on your Mac.
Open the VPN, log in, and connect to a US server.
Open your browser and go to the PBS website.
Enter your PBS details to log in.
You can now watch PBS on your Mac.

How to Watch PBS on iOS & Android

Watch PBS on iOS:

Download and connect to a VPN like ExpressVPN with US servers.
Go to Settings, tap your name, then ‘Media & Purchases,’ and select ‘View Account’ (sign in if needed). Tap ‘Country/Region,’ choose the US, agree to the terms, and update your payment info.
Open the App Store, download the PBS app, and log in.
You can now watch PBS on your iOS device.

Watch PBS on Android:

Download and connect to a VPN like ExpressVPN with US servers.
Open the Google Play Store, go to Settings > General > Account and device preferences > Country and profiles, and change your region to the US.
Search for and install the PBS app from the Google Play Store, then log in.
You can now watch PBS on your Android device.

How to Watch PBS on Smart TV

Follow these steps to watch PBS on your Smart TV:

Select a VPN with Smart TV support like ExpressVPN.
Install the VPN app directly from the Smart TV app store.
Connect to a US server to bypass geo-restrictions.
Open the PBS app or use a web browser to log in and start streaming.

Router-Based Smart TV Approach:

If your Smart TV does not allow for VPN apps, you can set up a VPN on your router and then connect your Smart TV to it. Here’s how to do it:

Configure a VPN like ExpressVPN on your router. This will cover all devices connected to the router, including your Smart TV.
Connect your Smart TV to the router’s VPN network to ensure it’s connected to a US server.
If the PBS app isn’t available on your Smart TV, you might need to sideload it.
Enter your PBS details to log in.
You can now watch PBS on your Smart TV.

How to Watch PBS on Firestick

Go to the Amazon Appstore on your Firestick and download a VPN app like ExpressVPN.
Open the VPN app, log in, and connect to a US server.
Go to Settings on your Firestick, then My Fire TV, Developer Options, and turn on “Apps from Unknown Sources.”
Use the search function on your Firestick to find and download the Downloader app from the Amazon Appstore.
Open the Downloader app and use it to sideload the PBS APK.
Enter your PBS details to log in.
Open the PBS app and start watching your favorite shows on your Firestick.

By following these steps, you can easily watch PBS on various devices, no matter where you are.

How to Troubleshoot Common PBS Streaming Errors

Why does PBS streaming keep buffering?

Check your browser’s main settings to ensure it’s updated to the latest version. Most browsers will prompt you to update if you’re using an outdated version. To make sure your PBS app is current, uninstall it from your device and then reinstall it.

Why is PBS pixelated?

PBS might be pixelated due to several factors affecting your TV signal quality. Here are some common reasons and solutions:

Reset Your TV Box:
- Power Off: Turn off your TV box.
- Disconnect: Unplug the power cable from the back of the unit and the wall outlet.
- Wait: Wait for 30 seconds.
- Reconnect: Plug the power cable back in and wait up to 2 minutes for the TV box to reboot.
- Test: Power on the TV box and check if the pixelation issue is resolved. The guide information may take up to an hour to update.
Reseat the Coaxial Connections:
- Detach: Unplug the power cable from the TV box.
- Unscrew: Remove the coaxial cable from both the TV box and the wall outlet or splitter.
- Reattach: Securely reconnect the coaxial cable to the TV box and the wall outlet or splitter, ensuring they are finger-tight.
- Reconnect: Plug the power cable back in and check the picture quality.
If reseating the coaxial cable doesn’t help, consider replacing the cable with a new one.
Bypass the Splitter:
- Detach: Unplug the power cable from the TV box.
- Remove Splitter: Keep one end of the coaxial cable connected to the TV box. Unscrew the end of the coaxial cable attached to the splitter and set the splitter aside.
- Direct Connection: Connect the loose end of the coaxial cable directly to the wall outlet.
- Reconnect: Plug the power cable back into the TV box and check if the picture quality improves.
If bypassing the splitter improves the picture, you might need a new splitter. You can get one from a retail store or an electronics store.
Additional Tips:
- Check Recorded Shows: If pixelation only occurs with recorded shows, the issue may be with the internal hard drive of the TV box.
- Recent Changes: Ensure no connections were accidentally disconnected during recent changes in your home.
- Equipment Upgrade: Consider upgrading to newer TV equipment if you have older models.
- Main Splitter: As a last resort, check the main splitter by connecting the coaxial cable directly to the main house feed and see if the picture improves.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, you may need to contact your cable provider for further assistance.

Is PBS still on Roku?

You can download the PBS app for free on Roku devices.

Conclusion

PBS is a prominent American TV network known for its wide range of educational programs, documentaries, and popular shows like “Masterpiece” and “PBS NewsHour.” However, due to distribution rights limitations, PBS content is generally restricted to the United States, making it inaccessible from other regions.

To bypass these geo-restrictions and access PBS content from outside the USA, a reliable VPN, such as ExpressVPN, is essential.

A VPN allows you to connect to a server in the US, masking your actual location and making it appear as though you’re accessing the service from within the country. This enables you to enjoy PBS’s diverse and high-quality programming regardless of your location.

FAQs – PBS Outside US

Their distribution rights are mainly limited to the United States. Although PBS’s over-the-air broadcasts may extend beyond US borders, online videos are restricted by geo-filtering, which limits access to PBS content to specific regions.

The video progress bar, along with options for closed captions (CC) and settings, will show up at the bottom left. Click on the CC option. A menu with CC choices will appear in the bottom right corner. Choose “English, CC” from the list.

PBS primarily acts as a distributor, not a producer, of content. Our distribution rights are often restricted, sometimes limiting us to only broadcast programming. When PBS does have streaming rights, they are usually time-limited, typically for about two weeks.