If you’re in the UK and want to watch ESPN+, using a VPN is a must to bypass geo-restrictions. However, not all VPNs are created equal, especially when it comes to streaming sports content like ESPN+. Below, we’ll break down the costs, pros, and cons of the best VPNs for accessing ESPN+ in the UK, so you can decide which one fits your needs.
1. NordVPN
Cost:
- Standard Plan:
- Monthly: £10.59/month
- 1-Year Plan: £4.39/month (billed £52.68 annually)
- 2-Year Plan: £2.49/month (billed £59.76 every 2 years)
Pros:
- Fast Speeds: Excellent for streaming ESPN+ without buffering.
- Large Server Network: Over 5,000 servers worldwide, with many in the U.S.
- Strong Security: Military-grade encryption and no-logs policy.
- SmartPlay Technology: Automatically optimizes streaming performance.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Reliable customer service through live chat.
Cons:
- Price: A bit pricier compared to other options, especially for the monthly plan.
- Occasional Slow Connections: Some servers may slow down during peak times.
Best For: Users who prioritize speed and security, and are willing to invest in a high-quality VPN for a seamless streaming experience.
2. Surfshark
Cost:
- Monthly: £10.29/month
- 1-Year Plan: £3.89/month (billed £46.68 annually)
- 2-Year Plan: £1.79/month (billed £43.76 every 2 years)
Pros:
- Unlimited Devices: Connect as many devices as you want on one account.
- Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly VPNs, especially with long-term plans.
- Fast Servers: Good speeds for streaming ESPN+ with minimal lag.
- No-Logs Policy: Ensures your privacy is protected.
- CleanWeb Feature: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
Cons:
- Occasional Speed Fluctuations: Speeds can vary depending on the server load.
- Smaller Server Network: Fewer servers compared to competitors, but still covers major locations like the U.S.
Best For: Budget-conscious users who want a solid, versatile VPN that works well with multiple devices and streaming platforms.
3. CyberGhost
Cost:
- Monthly: £10.29/month
- 6-Month Plan: £5.79/month (billed £34.74 every 6 months)
- 2-Year Plan: £1.99/month (billed £47.76 every 2 years)
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface: Easy setup and use, even for VPN beginners.
- Streaming-Optimized Servers: Dedicated servers for ESPN+ and other streaming services.
- Strong Privacy Features: No-logs policy, military-grade encryption, and a kill switch.
- Generous Money-Back Guarantee: 45-day money-back guarantee, longer than most VPNs.
Cons:
- Inconsistent Speeds: While generally good, some servers may experience slowdowns.
- Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some advanced features found in other VPNs, like obfuscated servers.
Best For: Beginners looking for a user-friendly VPN with dedicated streaming servers and a generous money-back guarantee.
4. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Cost:
- Monthly: £10.39/month
- 1-Year Plan: £3.59/month (billed £43.08 annually)
- 2-Year Plan: £1.79/month (billed £42.96 every 2 years)
Pros:
- Large Server Network: Over 30,000 servers worldwide, including numerous U.S. locations.
- Strong Customization: Offers various encryption and privacy settings.
- Affordable: Very competitive pricing, especially for longer-term plans.
- Good Speed Performance: Consistent speeds, making it suitable for streaming.
Cons:
- Basic Interface: Not as visually appealing or intuitive as some competitors.
- Past Privacy Concerns: PIA has faced privacy concerns in the past, though they maintain a strict no-logs policy now.
Best For: Users looking for a cost-effective VPN with a large server network and solid performance for streaming ESPN+.
Which VPN Should You Choose?
Choosing the right VPN depends on your specific needs:
- For the Best Overall Performance: NordVPN stands out for its speed, security, and reliability, making it perfect for uninterrupted ESPN+ streaming.
- For Budget-Friendly Options: Surfshark and PIA offer great value for their price, especially with long-term subscriptions.
- For User-Friendliness and Streaming Optimization: CyberGhost provides an excellent balance of ease of use and streaming features, ideal for beginners.
By weighing these pros and cons, you can select the VPN that best meets your needs for accessing ESPN+ in the UK, ensuring you never miss a moment of your favorite sports action!