PBS is a free American streaming channel renowned for its educational and cultural content. Its shows are designed to offer viewers a deeper insight into the world and its complexities.
However, PBS is only accessible in the US. To watch PBS in Canada, you can use a VPN by connecting to a US server.
Without a VPN, attempting to access PBS from Canada or outside the US will result in an error message stating:
“We are sorry, but this video is not available.”
I successfully unblocked PBS in Canada by connecting to a US server through ExpressVPN. ExpressVPN is our top choice.
Our Recommended VPN - ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is our recommended choice when it comes to unblocking streaming services/websites that are geo-restricted in Canada. It also helps hide your streaming activity whenever you watch free content by masking your IP address.
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How to Watch PBS in Canada
Step 1: Subscribe to a VPN (ExpressVPN is our recommended choice)
Step 2: Download the ExpressVPN app and install it on your device
Step 3: Open the VPN app and connect it to a US server (e.g. New York)
Step 4: Go to the PBS website and click on sign up
Step 5: Log in with either of the options, for example, Gmail
Step 6: Now scroll down on the homepage and click on “Choose Station”
Step 7: Select any US State and then click on “search by state”
Step 8: Select a station
Step 9: Now go to “shows” at the top menu to stream its content
Step 10: Select any genre of shows you want to watch, for example, Drama. Then, select a drama, A slow-burning romance
Step 11: Choose an episode
Step 12: Click on the Play button
Step 13: Happy Streaming!
Top VPNs to Unblock PBS in Canada?
I have tested 35+ VPNs to see which one could safely get around PBS’s geo-restrictions. The top three VPNs to stream PBS in Canada are listed below:
1. ExpressVPN – #1 VPN for Unblocking PBS in Canada
| Features | Details |
| Global Reach | 3200 servers in over 100+ countries |
| PBS Unblocking in Canada | Servers all over the US including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle, Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, and more. |
| Exclusive deal | $6.67/month (30-day money-back guarantee) |
| Multi-Device Compatibility | Log in to 5 different devices simultaneously – Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, and more |
| Enhanced Streaming | Fast streaming with Smart DNS/IPv6 leak protection, Split Tunneling, and Lightway Protocol. |
| Top-notch Privacy | Digital privacy with 256-bit Encryption, Kill Switch, and No Log policy. |
ExpressVPN ranks as the top choice for a reliable VPN, offering features like DNS/IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, and split tunnelling for added security.
Speed Test: When connected to a U.S. server via ExpressVPN, I achieved a download speed of 43 Mbps out of 50 Mbps.
With this strong speed, I easily unblocked PBS and streamed content smoothly, without any buffering!
It also works well in bypassing geo-restrictions on a range of streaming services Hulu, FXNow, Neon TV, HBO Max, FuboTV, etc.
2. Surfshark- Affordable VPN for Watching PBS Canada
| Features | Details |
| Global Reach | 3200 servers in over 100+ countries |
| PBS Unblocking in Canada | 600 servers in 25 major US cities including Boston, New York and Buffalo. |
| Exclusive deal | $2.19/month (30-day money-back guarantee) |
| Multi-Device Compatibility | Unlimited devices – Windows, Android, Mac, iOS and more |
| Fast Streaming | Uninterrupted streaming experience with Higher bandwidth per user, and numerous servers. |
| Excellent Privacy | Secure the connection with Camouflage Mode, IPv6 leak protection, AES-256-GCM Encryption, Kill Switch, DNS data protection and No-Logs Policy. |
Surfshark is a top recommendation for streaming PBS in Canada, offering excellent security features and budget-friendly pricing, making it one of our top picks.
Additionally, this VPN works well for accessing other geo-restricted channels and services in Canada, including USA Network, Paramount Network, etc.
3. NordVPN – Biggest Server Pool to Watch PBS in Canada
| Features | Details |
| Global Reach | 6000+ servers in 60 countries |
| PBS Unblocking in Canada | 16 servers in the US |
| Exclusive deal | $3.39/month (30-day money-back guarantee) |
| Multi-Device Compatibility | Up to 6 devices at once – Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, and more |
| Fast Streaming | Faster streaming with a Wider server range & NordLynx Protocol. |
| Excellent Privacy | Protect your connection with Military-grade encryption, Threat Protection, Double VPN, CyberSec, and No logs policy |
NordVPN is another excellent option for Canadians wanting to access PBS. In my tests, it successfully unblocked the platform in Canada with no security issues.
In addition to PBS, NordVPN also enables access to other geo-restricted channels and services in Canada, such as HBO Max, Discovery Plus, Frndly TV, Crunchyroll, etc.
Why a VPN is Required to Watch PBS in Canada?
PBS is only available in the US due to licensing agreements and copyright restrictions, which is why a VPN is necessary to stream PBS in Canada.
A VPN can help by changing your virtual location from Canada to the US, masking your IP address.
This way, when you access PBS, your location will appear as if you’re in the US, granting you access to the platform. ExpressVPN is our top choice.
What to Watch on PBS?
PBS is an online streaming service that has a wide range of educational drama, children’s viewing, art, culture, documentaries, international shows, historical series, and thought-provoking viewing.
Here’s a list of top movies/TV shows you can watch on PBPBS:
- Downtown Abbey
- Maryland
- Cranford
- Sanditon
- Guilt
- Roadkill
- Miss Scarlet & the Duke
- Victoria
- Grantchester
- Little Bird
- Professor T
What are the Devices Supported by PBS?
Here is the list of devices that are compatible with PBS:
- iPhone and iPad
- Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K
- Amazon Fire TV and Amazon Fire Stick
- Android mobile and tablet
- Android TV
- Google TV streaming devices and TVs
- Google Chromecast
- Samsung Smart TV (2017 models and later)
- VIZIO SmartCast TV
- Roku
How to Watch PBS on Mobile Phone
In order to watch PBS on mobile, make sure you are connected to the US server of ExpressVPN. Now follow these steps:
Step 1: Download the PBS app for Android OR iPhone
Step 2: Scroll down and click Download APK
Step 3: Click Open
Step 4: Click Dismiss
Step 5: Select the Live TV option or any show
Step 6: Click Play
Step 7: Start streaming!
Note: If it doesn’t start streaming, then change the station and stream!
Other Streaming Services to Watch in Canada
There are so many other online streaming services that are restricted in Canada. However, you can stream them in Canada with the help of a VPN.
Some of these streaming services are as follows:
- Watch Fox Sports Go in Canada
- Watch Comedy Central in Canada
- Watch TBS in Canada
- Watch Showtime in Canada
- Watch Amazon Prime in Canada
Troubleshooting Playback Issues
If you’re experiencing stuttering, buffering, or videos not loading, here are some steps to improve streaming performance:
- Check Your Internet Speed: Slow connections may cause streaming issues. Run an internet speed test online to ensure you’re getting adequate speeds. A minimum of 500 Kbps is recommended for smooth playback.
- Switch Browsers or Use the PBS App: Different browsers handle video players differently. If you’re facing issues, try switching to another browser.
- Restart Your Device: Running too many processes on your device can affect video performance. Try restarting your device, browser, or app to refresh the system.
- Restart Your Network: Power down your modem and router for a minute, then turn them back on. Reconnect to the internet and recheck the video.
- Update Your Browser or PBS App: Make sure your browser is running the latest version, or uninstall and reinstall the PBS app to ensure you’re using the current version.
- Adjust the Streaming Rate: On pbs.org, you can reduce the streaming rate by clicking the gear icon in the video player. Lower kbps may reduce buffering but at the cost of video quality. This feature isn’t available on the PBS livestream or app, as they adjust based on your network speed.
- Contact Your ISP: If issues persist, your Internet Service Provider may be able to help troubleshoot ongoing service problems or check your router’s connection.
- Try Later: Temporary issues can sometimes be resolved by revisiting the video at a different time. Ensure your device and network are up to date to support seamless streaming.
FAQs – PBS
Is PBS free?
Yes, PBS is free for everyone. It’s a free-to-air service that only works in the US. Outside the US, you will need to use a VPN and connect to the US server.
Do I have to buy a PBS membership?
No, for PBS membership, all you need is to log in to the PBS and you will be able to access all of its shows and enjoy all the features.
Is it necessary to sign up for PBS?
It is not necessary. But it is recommended to sign up for it because without it, you won’t be able to access all the shows and episodes. Your access will be limited to only some shows.
I’m looking to watch a PBS program that was aired but isn’t available online yet. What can I do?
Shows are typically available for streaming on PBS one day after their TV broadcast and remain online for about two weeks. Check PBS.org the day after a broadcast to see if the program is available for streaming.
Conclusion
PBS is a free streaming service where you can watch your favourite shows and movies. However, most of the content is only accessible in the US.
The only solution to watch PBS in Canada is with the help of a VPN e.g. ExpressVPN that can connect your device to the US server and change your IP address.
It easily bypasses geographical restrictions and helps access PBS outside the USA.
