Reading Time: 6 minutes
How-to-Fix-HBO-Max-Not-in-Service-Area-

Are you trying to watch HBO Max but keep running into the frustrating “Not in Service Area” message? You’re not alone. This common issue irritates viewers outside the designated service areas. Still, via this guide, there is a way to know how to fix HBO Max not available in your region in UK.

With a solid VPN like ExpressVPN, you can seamlessly change your IP address to a US location and watch US HBO Max in UK, just as I do. In this blog, you will learn how to use a VPN to eliminate the “HBO Max not in Service Area” error, ensuring uninterrupted access to your favorite shows and movies.


Quick Steps: How to Fix HBO Max Not Available in Your Region in UK

Here are some simple steps to swiftly bypass the geo-restrictions HBO Max’s geo-restrictions and fix ‘HBO Max Not in Service Area’ message, and help you with the issue of how to fix HBO Max not available in your Region in UK:

  1. Choose a robust VPN with proven unblocking capabilities (We recommend ExpressVPN).
  2. Launch the application and log into it using ExpressVPN account details.
  3. Locate and connect to US – New York server.
  4. Visit the HBO Max website.
  5. Log into your HBO Max account and stream your favorite content without interruptions.

Exclusive Deal: Grab the ExpressVPN deal- - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.

Watch HBO Max in UK! 30-day money-back guarantee

Note: Don’t worry about how to pay for Max in UK. Discover convenient tips and methods for hassle-free payments, even without a US credit or debit card.


Why You Need a VPN to Fix “HBO Max not available in your region” Message

To bypass these geo-restrictions and help you with the issue of how to fix HBO Max not available in your Region in UK, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential. A VPN conceals your IP address and replaces it with one from a server in a permitted location, like the US.

If you try to access HBO Max’s website apart from these countries, you won’t be able to bypass the geo-restrictions since your IP address differs considerably from that of a US resident. Instead, you’ll receive this geo-restriction error message on your screen when HBO Max not working with VPN or without it:

“Sorry, HBO Max isn’t available in your region yet.”

hbo-max-geo-error

To avoid the “How to Fix HBO Max Not in Service Area Message,” you need a VPN like ExpressVPN. It will mask and change your IP address into a US IP address. This way, you can easily bypass HBO Max geo-restrictions and access HBO Max with VPN regardless of your location, addressing the query of “Why is HBO not available in UK?


The Best VPNs for HBO Max not Available in your Region [Tested – 2024]

We’ve rigorously tested numerous VPNs to bring you the top performers for HBO Max that consistently offer unlimited, reliable, and smooth access to HBO Max in UK. Wondering how to fix HBO Max not available in your Region in UK? Consider using one of these recommended VPNs to bypass geographical restrictions.

  • ExpressVPN: It stands out for its fast streaming speeds and reliable access to HBO Max, featuring an extensive network of servers in the US. It provides a seamless streaming experience with robust security features and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark: Known for its affordability and performance, Surfshark has over 600 servers in the US and offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an ideal choice for users on a budget.
  • NordVPN: With a large number of servers, NordVPN excels at consistently unblocking HBO Max. It also emphasizes strong security measures and comes with a 30-day refund policy.

1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for How to fix HBO Max not available in your region in UK

ExpressVPN-in-UK

Key Features:

  • MediaStreamer feature
  • Servers: 3000+ servers in 105 countries, including 25+ cities of the US
  • Speed: 87.18 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection
  • Simultaneous connections: 8 devices
  • Unlimited bandwidth for Ultra HD streaming
  • Money-back guarantee: 30 days

ExpressVPN, as the best VPN for HBO Max in UK has a network of multiple servers in 105 countries, including, several servers in 25+ cities of the United States.

expressvpn-unblock-hbo-max

We unblocked numerous content libraries of other streaming sites as well using ExpressVPN servers.

Recommended Servers: New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago

Based on an average, ExpressVPN servers provided a download speed of 87.18 Mbps and an upload speed of 52.13 Mbps.

ExpressVPN-speed-test-in-UK

We had a terrific time while streaming HBO Max using ExpressVPN servers.

ExpressVPN also offers a Smart DNS service called “ExpressVPN MediaStreamer.” This feature allows ExpressVPN users to unblock HBO Max and other similar streaming services on devices that offer limited VPN configurations, such as Smart TV, Kodi, Firestick, Roku, Chromebook, and router. You can get HBO Max on Xbox in UK using this feature.

A single ExpressVPN account can be configured on unlimited devices but can only be connected to 8 devices simultaneously. ExpressVPN users can enjoy HBO Max programs on Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, and Linux simultaneously.

Security is another cornerstone of ExpressVPN’s service. With best-in-class encryption and no logs, it masks your location using different IP addresses and prevents cyberattacks from taking place using encryption protocols like AES 256-bit encryption.

Split tunneling, threat manager, and automatic kill switch are a few of the finest security features. All of that is available for just GB£ 5.36/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free, and it comes with a no-question-asked 30-day money-back guarantee on all its plans, along with live chat support.

Pros
  • Optimized servers
  • Unblocks HBO Max within seconds
  • Blazing-fast speeds supporting HD streaming
  • Doesn’t log user data
  • 24/7 live chat support

Cons
  • Offers connectivity of up to 8 devices only
  • Slightly expensive deals

Watch HBO Max in UK! 30-day money-back guarantee

2. Surfshark – Budget-friendly VPN for How to fix HBO Max is not available in your region in UK

Surfshark-in-UK

Key Features:

  • Whitelister feature
  • Servers: 3200+ servers in 100 countries including 600+ servers in 23+ cities of the US
  • Speed: 81.32 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection
  • Simultaneous connections: Unlimited devices
  • Unlimited bandwidth for Ultra HD streaming
  • Money-back guarantee: 30 days

Surfshark is recommended for its exceptional balance of affordability and performance. It provides a robust network of US servers at a price of GB£ 2/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee, including locations like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago, which are tailored for streaming.

Surfshark global server network includes 3200+ servers in 100 countries and has 600+ servers in 23+ cities of the United States.

surfshark-unblock-hbo-max

Using Surfshark servers, we unblocked HBO Max’s geo-restrictions within seconds.

Surfshark Recommended Servers: Miami, Chicago, and Dallas

During our Surfshark speed test in UK, we received a download speed of 81.32 and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps.

surfshark-speed-test-in-UK

We did not experience any buffering or extensive loading time while streaming HBO Max content.

Surfshark’s ability to support unlimited simultaneous connections has always been the day’s talk. Surfshark’s compatible with most OS like macOS, Windows, Android, and others. A single Surfshark subscription can be connected to all of your devices so you can install Surfshark on Firestick, Kodi, PlayStation, Xbox, Chromebook, Roku, Smart TV, etc.

Surfshark’s commitment to security is evident in its use of AES-256 encryption, Clean Web, AES 256-bit encryption, IKEv2/IPSec protocol, No Borders Mode, Kill Switch, Whitelister feature, and many other notable features that ensure your device’s security and privacy. You can swiftly watch HBO Max App on Windows in UK to enjoy Max Originals on your desktop PC and laptops.

Eventually, you can get Surfshark at the cost of only GB£ 2/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee; it also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and live chat support.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly plans
  • Consistently unblock HBO Max and other US streaming sites
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Most servers offered in the US
  • Provides top-notch security

Cons
  • For iOS, split tunneling is not supported
  • There are a few features for macOS
  • Occasional slow speeds

Watch HBO Max in UK 30-day money-back guarantee

3. NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN for How to fix HBO Max not available in your region in UK

NordVPN-in-UK

Key Features:

  • Double VPN
  • Servers: 6000+ servers in 61 countries, 1,970+ servers in the US
  • Speed: 83.82 Mbps speed on a 100 Mbps internet connection
  • Simultaneous connections: 6 devices
  • Unlimited bandwidth for Ultra HD streaming
  • Money-back guarantee: 30 days

NordVPN is a top contender for accessing HBO Max UK, thanks to its expansive network of over 1,970 servers across the United States. This vast selection allows users to connect to less congested servers, like those in Atlanta, Chicago, or Los Angeles, enhancing streaming quality and reliability.

NordVPN offers 6000+ servers in 61 countries with 1970+ servers in the United States alone.

nordvp-unblock-hbo-max

Using NordVPN servers, we could easily bypass geo-restrictions as if they didn’t exist in the first place.

NordVPN Recommended Servers: Denver, Seattle, and Los Angeles

During our testing NordVPN speed in UK, it delivered a lightning-fast speed of 83.82 Mbps speed and an upload speed of 44.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection for the most smooth and crystal clear HBO Max experience.

nordvpn-speed-test-in-UK

NordVPN servers proved to be quite fast and efficient while streaming HBO Max.

A single NordVPN subscription can support six simultaneous connections. Like ExpressVPN, NordVPN also offers a Smart DNS feature. In addition, users can access HBO Max TV shows and films on PlayStation, Kodi, Firestick, and others. You can also watch HBO Max on Roku in UK and enjoy your favorite Movies and TV series.

Security is a hallmark of NordVPN, with features like military-grade encryption, Double VPN, and CyberSec technology, which work together to protect your online activity. It offers IP & DNS leak protection, split tunneling, AES 256-bit encryption, Double VPN, obfuscated servers, and many other features.

NordVPN’s plans start from GB£ 3.21/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee and live chat support.

Pros
  • Offer largest server network in the US
  • Reliably unblock HBO Max and other streaming sites
  • Six simultaneous connections
  • Strong security and privacy

Cons
  • Windows app takes multiple clicks to disconnect

Watch HBO Max in UK 30-day money-back guarantee

Not All VPNs Work with HBO Max

Not all VPNs are optimized for streaming. The best ones offer SmartDNS and server obfuscation technologies to bypass geographical restrictions. Max is likely to detect those that don’t. For instance, completely free VPNs with a low server count may struggle to unblock Max.

It’s crucial to understand that not all VPNs can navigate HBO Max’s anti-VPN technology. When selecting a VPN, ensure it has a track record of bypassing VPN blocks, offers a wide selection of US servers, and provides high-speed connections for a smooth streaming experience.

Are you here to know, how to fix the issue of HBO Max not working in UK with a VPN. Let me tell you, only a handful of VPNs can bypass HBO Max’s anti-VPN detection, firewalls, and geo-blocks techniques. Therefore, when you are choosing a VPN for watching HBO Max, you should consider the following important aspects:

  • Ability to bypass HBO’s VPN blocks: Ensure the VPN provider can unblock HBO Max abroad. We will list a few tried and tested VPNs that still work with HBO Max.
  • Multiple US servers: Make sure the VPN you choose offers plenty of servers in the United States. So, you can easily choose and switch between various US servers to get the best HBO Max streaming experience.
  • VPN connection speeds: Ensure that your selected VPN provider offers super-fast VPN connection speed for bufferless, smooth, and 4K Ultra-HD HBO Max streaming.
  • Simultaneous connections: The VPN provider should support five or more simultaneous connections so that you can enjoy HBO Max access on various popular devices simultaneously.

If you want to learn how to cancel HBO Max in UK, it is a simple process but I advise you to continue with the subscription and try the above-mentioned troubleshooting tips.

Users also inquire about HBO Max free trial in UK, well there is no free trial offered by HBO Max but there are some other alternatives available to the users through which they can access HBO Max content for free.


VPNs that Don’t Work with “HBO Max Not Available in your region” Error

Many VPNs fail to bypass ‘HBO Max not available in your region’ or ‘HBO Max not in service’ errors. Although such VPNs may offer you low prices to lure you in, however, their tactics must not deceive you. Because one way or another, these VPNs can harm your device in terms of either security and being unable to serve the main purpose of unblocking HBO Max.

If you are here with the query, how to fix HBO Max not available in your Region in UK? Based on the tests we conducted, we found the following VPNs highly untrustworthy for streaming HBO Max:

1. Hola VPN

Using Hola VPN is a bad idea as the VPN provider indulges itself in bandwidth theft. As a result, it potentially risks its users as they stream HBO Max or similar streaming sites. Sure, Hola VPN is cheap, but it also keeps logs of your data activity and confidential information like credit card numbers, etc.

Most of all, Hola VPN fails in bypassing HBO Max geo-restrictions, making it pointless to use as that’s the main purpose of using a VPN. Furthermore, you may also put a target on your back for hackers by using Hola VPN. That’s why you’re better off without it.

2. Hoxx VPN

Hoxx VPN lacks the security measures a user needs while streaming. It provides an outdated encryption algorithm that may be decrypted easily, making your data vulnerable and available for use to actors who may be on the lookout for their next victim. Furthermore, Hoxx VPN keeps detailed accounts of user activities, making it highly unreliable.

HoxxVPN doesn’t work well with unblocking geo-restricted sites either, so you’ll keep wondering, ‘Why does it say HBO Max is not available in my region.’ That’s why we don’t recommend using HoxxVPN.

3. HideMyAss

Although HideMyAss has a sizeable user base, we would not recommend using it for streaming HBO Max. Based on our testing, HideMyAss was not able to unblock HBO Max UK. Not only that, but there’s also a risk of your data and IP address leaking while using HMA, especially given its record in the past.

You can also use HBO Max on Chromecast in UK and cast your favorite TV series and movies to the devices you like at the comforts of your home.


Has HBO Max and Discovery Plus Merged?

Yes, HBO Max has taken a shift and merged with Discovery Plus. This streaming landscape has evolved to form ‘Max’. It promises a richer library and an enhanced viewing experience, making it more important than ever to have a VPN that can adapt to these changes and provide reliable access.

You can also learn about how much is Max in UK, and get more details on the different plans it has to offer.


What is Popular on HBO Max in 2024?

Here’s a table consisting of the best shows on HBO Max in UK pick out the ones that suits your preference.

We also have a complete guide on the best movies on HBO Max in UK in 2024, we have shortlisted some of our top ones in the table below:

You can also watch Sports on Max in UK and catch all the live events.



FAQs – How to fix HBO Max Not Available in your Region in UK

To change your HBO Max region in UK, all you need to do is follow these steps:

  1. Sign up for a premium VPN like ExpressVPN.
  2. Download and install the app on your device.
  3. Launch the app and connect to a server location in the US.
  4. Go to the HBO Max website and log in.
  5. Enjoy streaming HBO Max!

Due to licensing rights, HBO Max is not available everywhere and is only available in the US and a few other locations. Even if you are a US citizen, you will not be able to access HBO Max if you are somewhere. HBO uses IP tracking technology to detect your IP address and deny access if you are not in the region where it is available.

You’re getting a “VPN Detected” error message on HBO because some VPNs cannot bypass HBO’s detection technology. Many streaming sites, including HBO, can detect whether or not you’re using a VPN to access its content. As a result, upon discovering your IP address provided by a VPN, the streaming site may block your access.

Yes, HBO Max is only available to people in specific countries, like the US, Netherlands, and Portugal. That’s why you will see the HBO Max region error message “Not in service area” when accessing HBO Max in UK. Changing your IP address to one of those countries is the way around this.

Max is the chosen name instead of HBO Max to represent a fusion of exceptional content from HBO and the vast entertainment offerings from Discovery Plus, providing viewers with an enriched streaming experience?

HBO Max is accessible in the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean, and selected European countries.

HBO Max faces a UK launch delay until 2024 due to Sky holding the UK rights to HBO programming until then. HBO plans to introduce HBO Max in select European countries in 2021, limited to regions where Warner already has an existing premium TV or streaming service.

Yes, you can potentially use your HBO Max account in the UK. Although HBO Max is not currently available in the UK, viewers may be able to circumvent its geo-restrictions by using a VPN.

Is HBO Max region-specific?

This message appears when HBO Max detects that you’re trying to access its content from a region where the service isn’t officially available. Using a VPN like ExpressVPN can help disguise your location and bypass these restrictions.

If HBO Max detects your VPN and you receive an error and want to know how to fix HBO Max not available in your Region in UK, try switching to a different US IP address with your VPN provider like ExpressVPN or seek assistance from their customer support.

Yes, connecting to a US server via a VPN like ExpressVPN allows you to use your existing HBO Max account and circumvent the regional restrictions.

HBO Max is not available in the UK due to an existing deal with Sky, which holds exclusive rights to HBO content in the region. But you can watch it by using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN.

To bypass HBO’s location restrictions in the UK, simply use a VPN to obtain an IP address from your home country. By connecting to the right server location, you can log in to your HBO account and stream as usual.


Wrapping Up!

In summary, while HBO Max may not be officially available in the UK, a reputable VPN can help you bypass the “Not in Service Area” message and enjoy a world of entertainment. This way, you will never have to deal with the error how to fix HBO Max not available in your region in UK while watching it.

A trustworthy VPN like ExpressVPN will help you bypass HBO’s geo-restrictions and VPN blocks and ensure your IP and DNS remain hidden while streaming.