The best BBC iPlayer VPN is the perfect tool for Brits abroad looking to tap back into the BBC's huge catalogue. From favorites like The Apprentice and Doctor Who to catching up on The Olympics, the BBC has something for everyone.
If you're outside of the UK and you want to watch iPlayer like you were back hoome, using a BBC iPlayer VPN couldn't be easier. All you need to do is connect to a UK server – London, for instance – and load up iPlayer. It's as simple as that. Be aware that you should have a valid TV licence to watch any BBC content.
At Tom's Guide, we've tested dozens of the very best VPNs from our base in the UK to make sure that they can effectively access BBC iPlayer, keep you totally secure online, and won't slow down your connection in the process. The five providers on this page are the best VPNs for iPlayer that fulfil these criteria, and if you're in a hurry, I've outlined the best three just below.
I've been in charge of Tom's Guide's VPN articles since 2020, and in that time I've helped test and review over 100 VPN providers for both Tom's Guide and TechRadar. I strongly believe that privacy, price, and ease of use all go hand in hand to make the very best VPN.
I've covered cybersecurity and tech in TechRadar, T3, and What Hi-Fi?, and you'll also find my work in titles from Watkins Publishing, and even the halls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The best BBC iPlayer VPNs at a glance:
Recent updates
In this latest update, I've added in some new features that providers have recently introduced, and ensured all the facts and figures are up to date.
The best BBC iPlayer VPNs in 2024
Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.
The best VPN overall
✔️ You want a no-nonsense VPN for streaming: NordVPN unblocks iPlayer on every UK server I tested, and Netflix, Prime, Disney+ and more are also available.
✔️ You want an all-in-one security solution: NordVPN nails the basics with a verified no-logs policy and secure protocols, and goes beyond with add-ons such as antivirus, Double VPN, and Threat Protection
✔️ You want excellent value for money: NordVPN packs a lot of power and features under the hood at a reasonable price. Plus, it has customizable plans, so you only pay for what you need.
❌ You want a super simple interface: there are lots of guides on setting up and using the NordVPN app, but the map-style interface can take some getting used to.
NordVPN is the best iPlayer VPN, and it really impressed in our testing. It reliably unblocks the British streaming site, and offers privacy and security extras including a built-in antivirus, a password manager, and a verified no-logs policy. It's fairly easy to use, although if you're mobile-first, you may prefer ExpressVPN or Surfshark's layout. Overall, it's our top pick here.
NordVPN is my #1 pick because, quite frankly, it's the total package – and one that won't cost you a fortune. The VPN has more than 440 servers in the UK that are ideal for accessing BBC iPlayer (even if you're on the other side of the world). If you fancy checking out content from elsewhere, or picking a server nearer to your actual location, you can take your pick of servers in 110 countries.
While connected to the web via Nord, you’ll be protected from malware and phishing ads through NordVPN’s Threat Protection tech – learn more in my NordVPN review.
With peak speeds of over 950 Mbps when connected to its proprietary NordLynx protocol, NordVPN is excellent for streaming other sites too. It’s my top-rated Netflix VPN, unblocking hard-to-crack Netflix libraries and other streaming platforms at will – including, of course, BBC iPlayer.
There's also an excellent SmartPlay feature that combines Nord’s basic VPN protection and smart DNS technology to churn out better security and speed while you stream your favorite content on your phone, laptop, tablet, or even devices such as Smart TV that don't natively support a VPN.
What's more, SmartPlay is automatically switched on the moment you connect to NordVPN – no manual intervention needed. However, be aware that if you're using Nord as a Smart TV VPN and only using SmartPlay, you won't have any added privacy – only the full VPN can do that.
You get two implementations of the kill switch, an audited no-logs policy, and nifty add-ons such as Double VPN and Onion Over VPN. Double VPN routes your internet traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, thus encrypting your data twice. While Onion Over sends everything through the super safe Tor network. Both are great for extra safekeeping.
NordVPN also comes with a built-in antivirus and password manager, establishing the service as more than just a VPN – it’s a full-fledged security tool you can bank on to protect you from just about anything. The Threat Protection Pro feature is a fairly fresh addition, and while it's only available on desktop, it's a neat way of staying safer online, even without being connected to the VPN.
NordVPN is decent where ease of use is concerned, and although its map-style interface isn't perfect in the mobile VPN apps, on larger screens it's perfectly pleasant to use.
NordVPN offers a decent 10 simultaneous connections, which should be enough for most households. However, if you think the limited simultaneous connections will be an issue, consider Surfshark or PIA, both have no limits on how many connections you can have active at one time.
The bottom line remains that NordVPN offers one of the most, if not the most complete security package, and its unblocking capabilities are second to none. If you’re still not convinced, thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee, you’ll have the freedom to figure out whether the NordVPN package is right for you.
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A fun design, but it could be a little more intuitive | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Generally very easy to navigate, but the map-based interface needs some understanding | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Blistering speeds make streaming and everything else a breeze | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | A force to reckon with as far as unblocking is concerned | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | A complete security solution with rock-solid encryption and a built-in antivirus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 expert assistance available with tons of self-help resources on the website | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Decent value for the price but there are cheaper options | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best VPN for beginners
✔️ You want a straightforward iPlayer VPN: with easy-to-use apps on all devices, autoconnect, and excellent support, ExpressVPN is a delight for beginners.
✔️ You want to stream everywhere: ExpressVPN has servers in a massive 160 locations and 105 countries, which allows it to unblock iPlayer – and just about every other streaming site.
✔️ You want a VPN you can trust with your life: ExpressVPN provides class-leading privacy and security thanks to a verified no-logs policy, a password manager, ad-blocking, and more.
❌ You're on a budget: ExpressVPN's all-round abilities are well worth its asking price, but budget-conscious users may find Surfshark and PIA to be more their liking.
❌ You want to stream iPlayer on lots of devices: Express’s 8 simultaneous connections are decent, but if you want a VPN you can share with everyone, it's worth considering Surfshark or PIA, which both offer unlimited simultaneous connections.
❌ You want a Linux VPN: although ExpressVPN allows Linux installations, it doesn't offer a graphical user interface – only a command-line one.
ExpressVPN is great choice for iPlayer unblocking thanks to its wide server network, fantastic speeds, a unique MediaStreamer tool to stream iPlayer on virtually every device, and easy-to-use apps on all platforms, along with tons of support available. It should definitely be top of your shortlist.
If you're after a beginner-friendly provider, I'd have to recommend ExpressVPN. in my ExpressVPN review, I found it to be perfect for streaming iPlayer thanks to its wide range of British servers, good speeds, and, of course, the fact it can get you access in the first place.
Outside of iPlayer, ExpressVPN performed a clean sweep of streaming platforms in my latest round of testing. It'll get you access to a variety of global Netflix libraries, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube, ITVX, Channel 4 and pretty much everything else.
Although ExpressVPN isn't the very fastest around, speeds of up to 750 Mbps in my testing are far faster than the vast majority of domestic connections. What's more, with servers in 105 countries, you'll be able to explore a huge amount of content outside of iPlayer.
Another ExpressVPN bonus is a diverse set of apps for devices such as the Fire TV Stick and game consoles. With other VPNs, you could end up spending hours fiddling with your Wi-Fi router to connect these devices – not so here, as you’ll have a dedicated app right in the store, ready to download.
Some of these devices rely on Express’s MediaStreamer tech, which allows you to access blocked content through the use of Smart DNS rather than using VPN servers. This means that you can use ExpressVPN to unblock content on tons of devices like Samsung Tizen TVs that don't support true VPN connections. Be aware, though, that it doesn't provide the security benefits of a real VPN on these devices.
On that note, there's not a service that can beat the reliability ExpressVPN offers.
With an independently audited no-logs policy, industry-standard AES-256 encryption, and RAM-only servers, ExpressVPN leads the pack when it comes to maintaining the privacy of user data and keeping it away from the reach of authorities and malicious entities. Plus, superb security add-ons such as the Threat Manager and a built-in password manager make it all the more better.
ExpressVPN is also renowned for its excellent customer service. If something goes wrong while you’re watching iPlayer, you’ll be able to launch a live support chat immediately, as agents are available 24/7.
Overall, ExpressVPN is solid on all counts, and with easy-to-use apps (that are ideal for newbies still learning how to use a VPN), nifty security features, and wide coverage, it's the perfect BBC iPlayer VPN that'll also keep you protected online, no matter what you're doing.
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A clean and simple interface on every app | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Very simple for beginners and lots of customization options will keep tech-savvy users happy as well | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Decent speed sufficient for everything, but Surfshark and NordVPN are faster | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | From iPlayer to Netflix, it unblocks every streaming platform with ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Class-leading security with nifty add-ons for extra safekeeping | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 customer support with friendly and prompt agents, plus lots of helpful guides | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Delivers excellent value for what it asks, but cheaper options are available | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The best cheap VPN service
✔️ You want the best budget VPN: with sub-$2.50 per month pricing available, Surfshark undercuts top providers like ExpressVPN and NordVPN by a fair margin.
✔️ You have a need for speed: In my last round of testing, I found Surfshark to be seriously swift, topping out at over 950 Mbps
✔️ You want unlimited simultaneous connections: one Surfshark subscription allows you to cover as many devices as you want.
❌ You need a foolproof kill switch: under tough testing, Surfshark's kill switch did fail – although this is very unlikely to happen in general usage.
❌ You don't want costly renewals: Surfshark prices shoot up after the end of the first time, and you'll have to cancel and resubscribe to continue benefiting from its cheap prices.
❌ You share P2P a lot: you can use Surfshark for torrenting, but it's not as optimized as ExpressVPN and PIA.
Surfshark offers excellent value without sacrificing performance, unlimited simultaneous connections, some of the fastest speeds in the industry, and near-perfect streaming power. It's not only great for iPlayer, but Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and more. If you can only spare $2.50 a month, this is your best bet.
My Surfshark review demonstrates that there’s no need to break the bank in order to access a top-quality iPlayer VPN. As long as you’re willing to sign up for two years, Surfshark is easily the best cheap VPN on the market today.
In my most recent testing, Surfshark also delivered a clean sweep of streaming unblocking, accessing not only iPlayer but Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. I tested it with other streaming services, including Channel 4 and ITVX in the U.K. and the Aussie 9Now and 10Play, and it was just as effective with them too.
One of Surfshark’s party pieces is its unlimited connections policy – this is quite rare in the industry, and having it combined with such a bargain price offers excellent value. With just one subscription, you, your family, and your friends can all stream iPlayer at the same time without worrying about anyone getting logged out.
Thankfully, even though it’s affordable, Surfshark doesn't lack any essential features. Your browsing data will be secure thanks to 256-bit AES encryption and protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard – plus the apps are incredibly easy to use no matter what platform you’re on, making iPlayer access super simple.
If you're mobile-first, Surfshark's Android VPN and iPhone VPN apps are really smooth to use. They feel modern, they're simple to navigate, and make staying protected and unblocking content a pleasant experience.
In my last round of testing, Surfshark proved to be one of the fastest VPN services. My speed testing is undertaken on a 1 Gbps connection, and the very fastest providers (including Surfshark, NordVPN, and Windscribe) all maxed out at 950 Mbps. On an even faster line, I have no doubt these providers would ramp up the speeds even more.
Coupled with its great speeds, you'll also get cookie, pop-up, ad, and malware blockers, so no need to worry about being tracked my marketing agencies or falling foul of dodgy downloads. What's more, the new Alternative ID feature offers an extra way to stay protected by spoofing your email and personal details.
If you're thinking of browsing further afield, Surfshark offers servers in 100 countries, meaning that no matter where you are or what you're looking for, you'll stay anonymous and have speedy, reliable access.
One negative from my testing is that when I put the kill switch under great pressure – closing low-level processes etc. – it did fail. However, this is very unlikely to happen in real life.
Overall, Surfshark is very easy to use with navigable interfaces no matter the device you're using. Should you run into any trouble, 24/7 customer support will get you up and running again in no time at all – plus you’ll also have 30 days to claim your money back if you don’t love the service.
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A beginner-friendly, fun, and intuitive design | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Easy-to-navigate apps across all devices, and very clutter-free | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | One of the fastest among all the VPNs I’ve reviewed | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Accesses every streaming platform you'd want it to | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Well-rounded security features, and although the kill switch could be better, it does its job | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 professional support with no shortage of helpful guides | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | An absolute bargain pick, one of the cheapest around | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Other quality BBC iPlayer VPNs that I've tested
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: Proton's always-on VPN feature keeps you connected at all times and re-establishes connection in case of hiccups.
✔️ You want a privacy-focused VPN: Proton VPN adheres to Swiss privacy laws, which are some of the strongest out there. Also, it's also an open-source platform, so you can audit its claims anytime you want.
✔️ You want to stream iPlayer on your Linux: Proton VPN comes with a graphical user interface (GUI) for Linux devices, scooting past top providers like ExpressVPN.
❌ You want an incredibly fast connection: Proton maxed out at around 460 Mbps in my testing. That's far faster than most connections, but if you've got a gigabit line, Nord or Surfshark can make the most of it.
❌ You're watching away from laptops or smartphones: Proton VPN doesn't have apps for as many streaming devices as the likes of ExpressVPN and NordVPN, and there's no Smart DNS present either.
❌ You want to stream for free: the free plan is great for day-to-day usage, but unfortunately, it doesn't get Proton's superior unblocking capabilities.
Proton VPN is a delight for privacy purists looking for superior unblocking capabilities. It offers complete peace of mind thanks to a unique Stealth protocol, an open-source platform, and features such as the always-on VPN. There's also a free plan decent enough for normal usage, but it's no good for streaming.
Proton VPN is well-known as a secure, private VPN service, but in the last couple of years, it has also proved itself as a seriously capable VPN for unblocking an array of streaming platforms – BBC iPlayer included.
In my testing, it had no problem working as an iPlayer VPN, and each time I tried, I was able to watch whatever I wanted on iPlayer when connected to a U.K. server. Plus, if you subscribe to Netflix or just about any other streaming service, you'll be able to use Proton VPN with them, too.
While peak speeds of around 460 Mbps isn't something to marvel at, it's respectable and gets the job done.
Plus, with a proprietary VPN Accelerator technology, Proton VPN claims that your server speeds can be cranked up by 400%. That said, in my own testing, I found the VPN Accelerator didn't make much of a difference. Nevertheless, it's a nifty tool to have.
An always-on VPN feature ensures that you're never on the internet without a secure VPN server masking your IP address and protecting your privacy.
It works almost exactly like ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature in that it re-establishes connection with a VPN server in the unlikely scenario of your VPN connection dropping.
One downside to Proton VPN is the fact that it doesn't support quite as many devices as other providers.
If you only stream on your phone or laptop, that won't be an issue, but if you're using a smart TV or another device that doesn't support VPNs, Proton's lack of Smart DNS service lets it down slightly.
However, its recently introduced Fire Stick VPN app shows that the provider is committed to upgrading its service regularly.
Also, Proton VPN offers 10 simultaneous connections, which although not the best that I've seen, is certainly more than heavyweights ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
In my testing, I was very impressed by Proton VPN's security. It's based out of Switzerland, a country outside EU and US jurisdictions and one that's not a part of the '14 Eyes' surveillance network.
With strong privacy laws as its bottom line, Proton VPN is as rock-solid as they come. Thanks to a free plan and a 30-day money-back guarantee on premium plans, you'll have ample time to test the service before committing.
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A very intuitive design, and the dark mode makes it more sleek | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | The mobile apps are great, but the desktop apps are a tiny bit complex | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Fast enough for everything, from streaming to torrenting | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | It unblocked iPlayer and everything else in my last round of testing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Swiss privacy, open-source apps and independent audits are excellent showings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | The response time could be better but plenty of help guides available | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | The premium plans aren't exactly budget-friendly, but there's a great free plan for normal usage | ⭐⭐⭐ |
✔️ You want lots of servers: PIA has the most servers out of any provider I've tested, claiming over 60,000 in 91 countries, including a server in every US state.
✔️ You want a trustworthy VPN: PIA is the only VPN to have proved its no-logs policy in court twice. It prioritizes your privacy and offers complete peace of mind.
✔️ You want a VPN you can share: PIA offers unlimited simultaneous connections at a bargain price, making it a go-to solution for those on a budget.
❌ Your watchlist is mostly on 10Play: PIA cannot get past the Aussie platform 10Play, but with iPlayer and everything else, it's up there with the best.
❌ You want an easy-to-use VPN: while a delight for tech-savvy users, PIA's wealth of customization options may make it hard to navigate for beginners.
❌ You want valuable add-ons: PIA is very reliable, but it's not quite the complete package as it lacks a password manager and a built-in antivirus.
Private Internet Access offers the most servers on a VPN that we've seen. It’s very good value for money with unlimited simultaneous connections, a no-logs policy proven in court, and great streaming support. Although it misses out on 10Play, it's smooth sailing with every other streaming platform, including BBC iPlayer.
In my most recent Private Internet Access review, it performed better than ever, and it's especially good as a BBC iPlayer VPN. It successfully accessed iPlayer in my testing and, what's more, it's great for Netflix, unblocking a number of regional libraries as well as Disney+, Hulu, and more.
The only site it couldn't get past was 10Play, the Aussie streaming platform, but other than that, it’s smooth sailing.
The biggest talking point has to be PIA's jump in 2023 to unlimited simultaneous connections – previously, it offered just 10 but it's now right beside Surfshark as a perfect choice for those looking to cover a lot of devices with a single VPN plan.
PIA is an absolute bargain, and as the cheapest provider on the list, I'd recommend it for anyone pinching for pennies. To give you an idea, its longer term plans are priced at just a little over $2 a month – an absolute steal, considering the quality of service.
PIA doesn't short-change you and provides impeccable security. It's the only VPN on the market to have proven its no-logs policy in court twice.
Add to that a MACE feature that keeps malware and ads at bay and a powerful kill switch, and PIA's security showing is right up there with the best. It's also 100% open-source, just like Proton VPN, meaning you're free to inspect its code any time you want.
For those that know how to use them, PIA's extra features like Port Forwarding will be very useful, especially if you're planning on using it as a torrenting VPN, but new users and those who want a simpler interface may find that they get in the way of a seamless experience.
However, I definitely wouldn't consider this a deal-breaker for anyone except the most tech-unsavvy individuals. It's very easy to simply open up the app – on whatever device you're using – and connect to your chosen server.
PIA, quite impressively, has the most VPN servers of any VPN on the market, topping out at a claimed 60,000+ worldwide. An illustrious location list with every server's latency mentioned alongside it makes PIA a delight to use and there will always be a fast and load-free server for you to connect to, no matter where you are.
| Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Lots of customization options, almost too many which may overwhelm first-time VPN users | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Ideal for tech experts, but beginners will have a lot of understanding to do | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Sufficiently quick, but not as fast as Surfshark or NordVPN | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks all popular streaming sites, except the Aussie 10Play | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | A proven no-logs policy, an email breach scanner, and class-leading configuration | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Plenty of helpful guides and 24/7 customer support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Unrivaled value for money, excellent for the budget-conscious | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How to choose an iPlayer VPN
If you're wondering how to watch BBC iPlayer, picking the right iPlayer VPN is essential. Your first check should be that your chosen provider can unblock the British TV streaming site at all. Thankfully, all the VPNs on this page work reliably in this respect, so you can make your decision based on other factors.
Plenty of servers dotted around the world will be a bonus, especially for anyone who does a lot of traveling. Bear in mind VPNs are useful for tons of other things besides streaming.
Top-quality privacy is also a must. Staying protected online is more and more difficult, so robust encryption, verified no-logs policies and any addition features like built-in antivirus should be green flags.
A good support team, ideally with 24/7 live chat will also be very useful – should you discover your iPlayer VPN suddenly can't unblock the site, a quick message may get you back up and running in a matter of moments. It's also worth going for a service that's simple and easy to use, alongside delivering great privacy.
New to BBC iPlayer
If you're looking for something new to watch on the BBC iPlayer, here are some suggestions of content that has recently hit the service:
- UEFA Men's Euro 2024: BBC iPlayer has launched an entire Euros channel for this year's champisonship, will special features and matches from the Euros archive. Watch not only the matches, but highlights, home nations camp reports, analysis and the new Euro highlights programme, Euros Breakdown.
- "A Good Girl's Guide To Murder": This thrilling new series sees Emma Myers ("Wednesday") portray Pip Fitz-Amobi, a girl determined to unmask the real culprit behind an apparently solved murder case. How far will the real killer go to keep her from the truth?
- Eastbourne Tennis 2024: Get yourself warmed up for Wimbledon by watching some of the biggest starts in women's tennis battle it out on court.
- "The Traitors US" season 2: Alan Cumming hosts the US version of the viral reality TV show which sees ordinary people play a faux-deadly game of subterfuge.
- Tennis: Queen's: This pre-Wimbledon tennis tournament sees some of the biggest names in men's tennis take to the grass court.
FAQ
What is the best BBC iPlayer VPN?
From the results of our in-depth testing, we consider NordVPN to be the best iPlayer VPN. It's fast, reliable, easy to use, and offers excellent privacy features. Plus, it comes at a budget-friendly price.
How do we test iPlayer VPNs?
To ensure we're giving you up-to-date information on these iPlayer VPN providers, we regularly test them to make sure they're keeping up with the competition. This is our process:
First, we fire up the VPN to be tested, and connect to the automatically selected server in the U.K. – this best reflects what the majority of users will be doing.
We then head over to iPlayer and attempt to watch its exclusive content. We do this both in private browsing/Incognito mode and on a regular browser, note any differences, and repeat a number of times to check for any discrepancies.
We then note down the results, and update any relevant guides and articles if necessary.
What can I watch with a BBC iPlayer VPN?
Once you've downloaded a working BBC iPlayer VPN, all of the channel's content will be available to watch. So that means all of the dramas, comedies, documentaries and films it has in its library to watch on demand, as well as all of its live channels.
We're not going to list here everything you can watch... this page would go on and on and on! But we're talking about the vast majority of the "Doctor Who" catalog, those brilliant David Attenborough documentaries like "Planet Earth III", hit shows such as "The Tourist" and "Vigil", and your daily dose of the goings on in Albert Square in "Eastenders".
Then there's the all the live coverage it shows of Glastonbury festival, Wimbledon, the FA Cup and the Olympic Games, too.
Why doesn't every service work as an iPlayer VPN?
While almost every VPN has the power to relocate you by routing your connection through a server in a different country, relatively few have the power to unblock streaming services.
Most can act as a YouTube VPN, unblocking region-restricted content, thanks to the fact that YouTube has relatively lax VPN usage rules. Essentially, it's pretty easy to get around it.
Other services like Netflix and Amazon Prime are trickier, though. To access Netflix a VPN has to put work into avoiding the blocks and check in place, and Amazon also take into account where your subscription is based/being paid from.
However, in terms of VPN blocking, iPlayer is usually the most difficult to unblock. That's probably because there are no ads and it's free to use in the U.K. – so there's a lot of reasons why people overseas would want to get access. Thus, only the very best services can get you watching.
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Disclaimer
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:
1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
