How to Watch Irish TV Channels in USA in 2024

If you want to catch up on your favorite Irish TV shows like Fair City, The Fall, and Bad Sisters in USA, this one is for you. Continue reading as we show you how to watch Irish TV channels in USA.

Ireland has a popular channel lineup including RTE, Virgin Media Player, TG4, Channel 4, UTV, Sky Max, and many more. These channels offer online streaming plus on-demand content that you can watch via streaming platforms.

Due to copyrights and international licensing, these channels are geo-restricted and are only available in Ireland. If you try to access them from the US, you will get a restriction message.

Luckily, there’s an easy solution to watch Irish TV channels in USA. You will need a VPN. With a trustworthy VPN like ExpressVPN, you can obtain a local Irish IP address and watch any local channel you want outside Ireland.

Let’s take a detailed look at how to watch Irish TV in USA and we will also recommend the best VPNs for the job.

How to Watch Irish TV Channels in USA [Quick Steps]

1. Sign up for a good VPN service like ExpressVPN.
2. Download and set up the VPN app on your device.
3. Open the VPN app, log in, and choose a server in Ireland.
4. Visit the Irish TV channel you want to watch.
5. Enjoy your favorite Irish TV shows from the USA.

Why Is VPN Necessary to Watch Irish TV Channels in the USA?

To access Irish TV channels in the US, a VPN is necessary since the channels are restricted to Ireland. Channels like TV3 Player, RTE, and TG4 are only available to viewers within Ireland.

For example, Virgin Media Television (or TV3) offers channels such as TV One, TV Two, and TV3, but it’s inaccessible outside of Ireland due to licensing and copyright limitations.

When attempting to use these channels in the US, you will encounter an error message. For example, when we tried to stream TV3 Player in the US, we got the following message on the screen:

“Sorry. This video is not available to watch in your region.”

This is where a VPN becomes useful. A trusted VPN allows you to bypass the geo-restrictions on these channels, enabling access from the US.

For example, ExpressVPN has several servers in Ireland. Connecting to one of these servers assigns you an Irish IP address, making RTE believe you’re in Ireland, and allowing you to stream content while in the US.

Best VPNs to Watch Irish TV Channels in USA

Not all VPNs will allow you to watch Irish TV in the US. When choosing a VPN, it is essential to consider important criteria such as Irish servers, speed, etc. There are the three best VPN services to unblock and watch Irish TV in the US.

1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Irish TV Channels in USA

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for streaming Irish TV in the US. It is a leading VPN choice for its excellent security, fast speeds, and wide network.

With over 3,000 servers across 105 countries, including multiple in Ireland, ExpressVPN makes it simple to obtain an Irish IP address, allowing access to Irish TV channels. You can easily connect to these servers to stream Virgin Media TV, RTE Player, and other channels from abroad.

When we tested ExpressVPN for accessing Irish TV channels, we experienced smooth, uninterrupted streaming with stable and fast connections.

As a top VPN for streaming, ExpressVPN also works with other major geo-restricted services like 9Now, Stan, Netflix, Starz Play, BBC iPlayer, Eurosport, and Hulu.

ExpressVPN is compatible with various platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Fire TV, Chrome, and routers. It allows up to eight devices to connect simultaneously on a single subscription.

Its Device Groups feature helps manage multiple devices across different VPN locations. Installing ExpressVPN on a router is easy, enabling you to connect smart TVs and gaming consoles effortlessly.

ExpressVPN offers features like Threat Manager, Split Tunneling, Stealth Servers, and MediaStreamer for devices that don’t natively support VPNs such as Smart TVs.

The service is reasonably priced, starting at $6.67 per month for an annual plan, which includes additional free months. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you try it risk-free.

2. Surfshark – Budget VPN for Watching Irish TV in USA

Surfshark VPN is another excellent option for streaming Irish TV channels. It is known for its budget-friendly plans and allows unlimited device connections simultaneously.

We tested Surfshark using the WireGuard protocol, maintaining 86% of the original speed, making it ideal for high-quality streaming. With over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, including Ireland, Surfshark offers reliable and fast performance.

When we tested Surfshark’s servers in Ireland, we found the connection quick and easy to establish, with top-tier streaming quality and no buffering issues.

You can also use Surfshark to access popular streaming platforms that are geo-restricted like Voot, Hotstar, Channel 4, and iTV in the USA.

Surfshark supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, and streaming devices like Roku and Firestick. It offers unlimited device connections on a single account, so you can share one subscription with your friends and family.

There is a SmartDNS technology as well for devices without native VPN support. Additional features include split tunneling and ad blocking.

Surfshark starts at an affordable price of $2.19 per month and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial.

3. NordVPN – Large Server Network for Streaming Irish TV Channels

NordVPN is a popular choice for streaming Irish TV channels in the US because of its large server network. The VPN is known for its strong security and outstanding performance, maintaining 80% of the original speed, making it perfect for streaming.

With 6,448 servers in 111 countries, including many in Ireland, NordVPN offers fast, reliable connections. It uses AES-256-bit encryption, includes a kill switch, and DNS leak protection, and follows a strict no-logs policy to ensure your privacy.

When we tested NordVPN’s Irish servers, the connection was fast, and the streaming quality was excellent, with no buffering or quality drops.

NordVPN works on all major platforms and devices, including Android TV, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, and Roku. It allows streaming on up to 10 devices at once.

Features like Meshnet and SmartDNS make it easy to connect devices and bypass restrictions on smart TVs. NordVPN also works with platforms like BT Sports, BBC iPlayer, Indian TV Channels, TF1, and Sky Sports.

NordVPN is priced at $3.39 per month, offering a great balance of features, global coverage, and cost. It also includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial.

How We Selected the Best VPNs for Ireland TV Channels

We conducted thorough testing, focusing on key criteria to identify the best VPNs for streaming Irish TV channels in the US:

• Reliability: We evaluated each VPN across various servers over several weeks to ensure they consistently allow access to Irish TV channels without disruptions.
• Speed: We tested the VPNs’ performance during peak and off-peak times to ensure they provide fast speeds for smooth streaming with no buffering or lag.
• Privacy and Security: We examined crucial security features such as a kill switch, no-logs policy, and advanced protections like malware detection. We also ran simulations of potential cyber threats to confirm a secure connection.
• Cost: We compared subscription plans and features to ensure the VPNs are affordable while offering excellent value for their performance and quality.
• Servers in Ireland: We assessed the availability and performance of servers in Ireland to ensure stable access to Irish TV channels and reliable connections.
• Device Compatibility: We tested the VPNs on a variety of operating systems and devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, smart TVs, and streaming devices, ensuring they support multiple devices simultaneously and offer a seamless experience.
• Money-back Guarantee/ Free Trial: We looked for VPNs that offer either a money-back guarantee or a free trial, providing users with a risk-free opportunity to test the service before committing.

Popular Irish TV Channels and Streaming Services

Here are some of the top Irish streaming services and TV channels that you can watch in the US with a VPN.

TV3 Player

• Content: TV3 Player offers a range of live TV channels and on-demand content. It includes TV Onwe, TV Two, and TV3.
• Special Features: Provides live TV streaming and a library of on-demand shows. It’s available on web browsers and mobile apps allowing you to watch TV anytime, anywhere.
• Cost: Free for streaming without any need for subscription.
• Audience: Perfect for those who want to watch Irish and British TV and enjoy a mix of live and on-demand content.

RTE Player

• Content: RTE Player offers a wide selection of live TV channels and on-demand content from Ireland’s national broadcaster. It includes RTE One, RTE Two, RTE News, and exclusive online content.
• Special Features: The platform supports live TV streaming, catch-up services, and a library of on-demand shows. It’s accessible via web browsers and mobile apps, allowing you to watch Irish content anytime, anywhere.
• Cost: Free to stream with no subscription required.
• Audience: Ideal for viewers interested in Irish TV, current affairs, entertainment, and documentaries, with the flexibility of both live and on-demand content.

TG4

• Content: TG4 offers live TV and on-demand content with a focus on Irish language programming, including news, dramas, sports, and cultural shows. It also features a selection of English-language content.
• Special Features: The service provides live TV streaming and a robust on-demand catalog. Accessible on web browsers and mobile apps, it allows viewers to enjoy programming from anywhere.
• Cost: Free to access without the need for a subscription.
• Audience: Perfect for those who want to explore Irish culture, language, and entertainment, with a mix of live TV and on-demand content in both Irish and English.

ITV Hub

• Content: Offers catch-up TV for ITV channels including ITV, ITV2, ITV3, ITV4, and CITV. It includes a variety of dramas, entertainment, and reality shows.
• Special Features: Provides access to popular ITV shows with options to download content for offline viewing with ITV Hub+ and live TV streaming.
• Cost: Free with ads; ITV Hub+ is available for £5.99 per month to remove ads and enable downloads.
• Audience: Targets viewers who enjoy ITV’s diverse programming including popular dramas and reality shows.

How to Watch Irish TV Channels in USA on Any Device

Most Irish TV channels like RTE and TV3 Player have apps for various devices. So, if you want to watch these channels on your device, here are step-by-step guides that you can follow.

How to Watch Irish TV on Computer (Windows/ Mac)

1. Choose a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN with Ireland servers. Download and install the VPN on your computer.
2. Open the VPN, log in, and connect to an Irish server.
3. Open your web browser and go to the Irish TV channel website you want to stream.
4. Log in and enjoy streaming.

How to Watch Ireland TV on iOS & Android

iOS:

1. Download and connect to a VPN like ExpressVPN.
2. Go to Settings, tap your name, then ‘Media & Purchases’, and select ‘View Account’ (sign in if needed). Tap ‘Country/Region,’ pick Ireland, agree to the terms, and update your payment info.
3. Open the App Store, download the Irish TV app, and log in.
4. Now you can watch your favorite shows from Ireland on your iOS device.

Android:

1. Download and connect to a VPN like ExpressVPN.
2. Open the Google Play Store, go to Settings > General > Account and device preferences > Country and profiles, and change your region to Ireland.
3. Search for and install the Irish TV channel app from the Google Play Store, then log in.
4. Enjoy streaming!

How to Access Irish TV Channels on Smart TV

1. Select a VPN with Smart TV support like ExpressVPN.
2. Install the VPN app directly from the Smart TV app store.
3. Connect to an Ireland server to get around geo-restrictions.
4. Open the Irish TV app or use a web browser to log in and start streaming.

For Smart TVs that don’t allow direct VPN setup, you can set up your VPN on a router and connect your TV with it. This way, you will be able to watch Irish entertainment on your TV from outside Ireland easily.

How to Stream Irish TV on Firestick

1. Go to the Amazon Appstore on your Firestick and download a VPN app like ExpressVPN.
2. Open the VPN app, log in, and connect to an Ireland server.
3. Go to Settings on your Firestick, then My Fire TV, Developer Options, and turn on “Apps from Unknown Sources.”
4. Use the search function on your Firestick to find and download the Downloader app from the Amazon Appstore.
5. Open the Downloader app and use it to sideload the Irish TV channel APK.
6. Open the app, log in, and enjoy streaming.

Popular Irish TV Shows and Content to Watch in the US

Ireland is rich in culture and it shows in its entertainment as well. There are quite a few popular Irish titles that you can stream in the US. To get started, here are some of the best movies and shows to watch on Ireland TV channels.

Best Shows to Watch on Ireland TV Channels in the USA

• Fair City IMDb 2.7
• The Late Late Show IMDb 8.4
• Charleen and Eliie Go All In..
• The Ick Factor
• Relove My Space
• Up For The Match
• The Full Irish Hidden Camera Show
• Wild West Roulette
• Bad Sisters IMDb 8.3
• Kin IMDb 8.0
• Normal People IMDb 8.4
• The Fall IMDb 8.1
• Blue Lights IMDb 8.2
• Derry Girls IMDb 8.5
• Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope IMDb 7.3
• The Dry IMDb 7.2
• Dublin Murders IMDb 7.1
• Bodkin IMDb 6.9

Conclusion

We hope with this guide you can watch Irish TV channels in USA with ease. There are plenty of Irish streaming services and channels that you can unblock and access in the US by using a VPN.

With a trustworthy VPN like ExpressVPN, you can connect to local Irish servers and stream Irish TV in high definition from anywhere in the world. So, change your IP address to Ireland, and enjoy streaming the local content in the US and abroad.

FAQs – Irish TV in USA