How Much Does The CW Cost in the UK? A Complete guide

The CW is renowned for its popular shows like “Riverdale,” “The Flash,” and “Superman & Lois.” However, if you’re in the UK and looking to access The CW’s content, understanding the cost of CW can be a bit complex due to geographic restrictions and varying subscription models. In this guide, we’ll break down how much it costs to access The CW from the UK, including both direct and indirect methods.

1. The Cost of The CW Through US-Based Streaming Services

To watch The CW in the UK, you typically need to use a US-based streaming service that includes The CW in its lineup. Here’s a look at the costs associated with these services:

• YouTube TV
  • Cost: Approximately $73 per month.
  • Features: Includes The CW, along with a variety of other channels and a cloud DVR feature.
  • Access: Requires a VPN to sign up and stream from the UK.
• Hulu + Live TV
  • Cost: Around $76 per month.
  • Features: Offers live streaming of The CW and other channels, plus access to Hulu’s on-demand library.
  • Access: A VPN is needed to sign up and watch from the UK.
• fuboTV
  • Cost: Starting at $74.99 per month.
  • Features: Includes The CW and a wide range of other channels. Features a cloud DVR for recording shows.
  • Access: VPN required to access fuboTV from the UK.

2. The Cost of Using a VPN or Smart DNS

To access The CW content via US-based services, you’ll need to use a VPN or Smart DNS. Here’s what you might expect to pay:

• VPN Service
  • Cost: Typically ranges from $3 to $12 per month, depending on the provider and plan.
  • Examples: NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost are popular choices.
• Smart DNS Service
  • Cost: Usually between $5 and $10 per month.
  • Examples: Unlocator and Smart DNS Proxy offer reliable services.

3. Using Gift Cards for Payment

If you don’t have a US-based credit card, you can use a US gift card to pay for streaming services. Here’s how much you might spend:

• US Gift Cards
  • Cost: Generally available in increments of $25, $50, or $100.
  • Purchase: You can buy these gift cards from online retailers like Amazon or MyGiftCardSupply.

4. Alternative Payment Methods

If you choose to use Apple Pay or Google Pay linked to a US-based payment method, the cost remains the same as the subscription fees listed for US-based services. However, setting up these payment methods might involve additional steps or fees associated with currency conversion.

5. Indirect Costs and Additional Considerations

• US-Based Subscription Costs: Besides the subscription fees for streaming services, consider the cost of maintaining a VPN or Smart DNS service.
• Currency Conversion Fees: If you’re purchasing US-based gift cards or using international payment methods, be aware of potential currency conversion fees.
• Promotions and Discounts: Keep an eye out for promotions or discounts offered by streaming services, which might reduce your overall cost.

6. Cost Comparison with UK Alternatives

If managing costs and subscriptions through US-based services seems cumbersome, consider the following UK alternatives:

• Subscription Services in the UK: Platforms like Netflix UK or Amazon Prime Video occasionally offer CW shows, which may be available for a separate fee or as part of their subscription.
• TV Packages: Local providers like Sky may offer access to shows similar to those on The CW, sometimes included in broader TV packages.

Conclusion

Accessing The CW from the UK involves subscribing to a US-based streaming service, using a VPN or Smart DNS, and possibly managing additional costs such as gift cards or international payment methods. The total cost will vary based on your choices, but expect to spend around $73 to $76 per month for streaming services plus any additional fees for VPN or Smart DNS services.

By understanding these costs, you can better plan how to access and enjoy The CW’s extensive lineup of shows from the comfort of your home in the UK.