Unlocator Review
UnLocator is a simple SmartDNS that allows you to appear in a location different from your actual location. This “change” in location is very important when accessing geo-blocked content. For instance, if you’re traveling outside the UK to a location where BBC iPlayer isn’t accessible, you can use UnLocator to continue watching iPlayer. This applies for many other geo-restricted entertainment websites including Google Music, Hulu, HGTV, and HBO GO among others.
UnLocator is currently one of the most highly rated SmartDNS services in the world. But is the hype justified? We find out in this review.
How it works/ ease of use
UnLocator, just like any other SmartDNS works by hiding your location to appear like you’re accessing a website from a completely different part of the world. To do this, your DNS queries are re-routed through UnLocator servers, without interfering with internet speeds. However, unlike VPNs, data isn’t encrypted.
Basically, if you’re connected to the internet via UnLocator, your connection is re-routed through specific websites supported by the service you’re trying to access. For instance, if you’re trying to watch iPlayer and you’re currently in Brazil, your traffic will be re-routed via servers located in one of the 13 countries where iPlayer is supported.
The good thing is when you try to access local/unrelated content such as internet banking or social media sites, your connections won’t be affected; you will be browsing from exactly where you are.
Features and device support
One of the main strengths of UnLocator is the support for a wide range of devices. First, you don’t need any special software to use the product since you can accomplish basically everything on their website. Secondly, the SmartDNS currently supports 109 channels most of which are highly sought entertainment websites. These include Universal Sports, Vevo, Via Play, Vudu, MTV and so much more. You can find the full list of supported services on the UnLocator website.
Also, you can use UnLocator on just about any device including PS3 and Xbox 360 as well as iPads, routers, smartphones, tablets, game consoles, and many others. Other supported devices include Samsung Smart TV, LG Smart TV, Android, Windows Phone, Roku, Now TV Box, Chrome Cast, Apple TV, Google TV, Boxee, Kindle Fire and Ubuntu. The setup tutorials for specific devices and Operating Systems can be found in the UnLocator Setup area. They even have special setup tutorials for Amazon Fire TV.
You can use your product on all the major Operating Systems including Windows, Linux, and Mac OSX. Even Windows 8 is supported.
Pricing / Pay Plans
Price is one factor that always influences buying decisions. Fortunately, UnLocator is very fairly priced. The SmartDNS service has 3 pay plans (well, 4 if you count the 7-day trial period). Upon successful sign-up, you’ll receive an email indicating that you’ve qualified for a 7-day risk-free trial period. The offer is completely free and allows you to unlock 149+ channels on an unlimited number of devices. Take this time to fully evaluate the product.
The other three plans are premium. For the monthly plan, you’ll pay $.95 billed every 30 days. Then there is a 6-month plan which costs $27.50 ($4.58/mo) billed every 6 months. The 12-month plan costs $49.95 ($4.16/mo) billed every 12 months.
All the premium plans commence right after the free-trial period has ended and come with a 14-day money-back guarantee and an option to discontinue your subscription at any time.
The SmartDNS provider accepts a range of payment options most notably MasterCard, PayPal, Visa, and Dankort.
User support
Another major concern for SmartDNS users is support. Setting up and running some of these products can be complicated indeed, especially for first timers. UnLocator takes away the discomfort by providing reliable customer support.
On the main UnLocator website, you will find a comprehensive support page loaded with setup guides, troubleshooting articles and tips and so much more. You can visit the page to download a resource whenever you’re challenged.
UnLocator also has a robust FAQs section which carries answers to the most common questions. So, before you email the support desk, navigate to the FAQs page and go through the questions and related answers.
If the above options aren’t sufficient, you can contact UnLocator directly by emailing them or chatting with a representative on social media, particularly Facebook and Twitter. They have a very active Facebook page where they promptly respond to consumer queries.
Telephone, Skype, and live chat are not currently available.
Verdict
There is no doubt that UnLocator is one of the best SmartDNS providers in the market. Costing as little as $4.16/mo, it’s also one of the most pocket-friendly services you can find. More importantly, it’s very easy to download, setup and use, and the user support is excellent. Rating: 9/10.
Go to unlocator.com
I live in Spain and started using Unlocator about 16 months ago to watch Sky+ tv. It worked perfectly for over a year and then about a month ago it suddenly stopped working. I paid for a full year back in February. I contacted Unlocator and was told that there was an issue with Sky. As I have paid for a full year I asked for a refund for the month that the service did not work. They refused stating they don’t give refunds referring to their t’s & c’s. Now after over a month I have had to pay for another DNS service. I want to cancel the Unlocator service as it does not work and I have asked for a refund of the unused portion of the service. They have refused again saying they don’t give refunds. I want to write to their senior manager but can’t find any information. I don’t see why I should have to pay for a service that doesn’t work.