get_iplayer review
A focused, open-source BBC downloader with search, batch jobs, subtitles, and scheduled recording.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
get_iplayer is an open-source command-line utility for downloading television programmes from BBC iPlayer and radio programmes from BBC Sounds. It suits users who want to search, archive, and organize BBC catch-up content across Windows, macOS, and Linux. Searches can use programme names, descriptions, episodes, and channels, while downloads can be started with a programme ID or URL. The tool supports MP4, M4A, MPEG-TS, and SRT output, with subtitles available in SubRip format.
Its strongest advantage is workflow depth within that narrow remit. get_iplayer indexes many recent catch-up programmes, accepts multiple downloads in one command, and includes scheduled PVR recording for recurring capture tasks. TV and radio recording quality can be configured, with support reaching 1080p when explicitly requested. Metadata handling and optional conversion to common media containers add flexibility for users maintaining a local library. These capabilities make it more suitable for repeat archiving than a simple one-off download utility.
The trade-off is ecosystem breadth. Support is centered on BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds, so users looking for a downloader covering multiple streaming services should choose a broader alternative. The command-line interface also favors users comfortable with commands, URLs, programme IDs, and scheduled jobs rather than those seeking a graphical workflow. get_iplayer is a strong fit for focused BBC archiving, batch retrieval, subtitles, and scheduled recording; it is less appropriate for UHD/4K requirements or wider source coverage.
get_iplayer pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Searches and indexes recent BBC catch-up programmes
- Supports batch downloads, scheduled PVR recording, and subtitles
- Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux with up to 1080p quality
- Where it doesn't
- Limited to BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds
- Command-line workflow may require technical comfort
- 1080p must be explicitly requested and UHD/4K is unavailable
get_iplayer fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update