5 Best VPNs for Netflix Still Working From Anywhere in 2024
- Best VPNs for Netflix — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)
- Quick Comparison Table: Best Netflix VPN Features
- Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Netflix
- Quick Guide: How to Watch Netflix With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps
- VPN Not Working With Netflix? Try These Quick Troubleshooting Tips
- Warning! These VPNs Don't Work With Netflix
- FAQs on Watching Netflix with a VPN
- Get the Best VPN for Netflix
Most VPNs struggle to work with Netflix due to their unreliable streaming capabilities. Many of them cause huge speed reductions, leading to interruptions and buffering. Others have IP servers that can’t access Netflix securely from anywhere.
The team and I tested 50+ VPNs with Netflix to see which ones are still working. Out of all of them, we found a few that proved reliable for HD or UHD streaming from any location. We looked at their speeds, server network, ease of use, security features, and more.
For smooth Netflix streaming, ExpressVPN is my top recommendation. It had the fastest connections and the most reliable servers for watching shows and movies in the highest quality possible from anywhere. It’s also backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it with Netflix risk-free. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Netflix in 2024
- Editor's ChoiceExpressVPN
The fastest VPN for streaming Netflix in top quality from anywhere with no buffering.70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN - CyberGhost
Netflix-optimized servers to give you reliable connections for streaming in HD. - Private Internet Access
Customizable options and a large server network to easily find a speedy server near you. - NordVPN
Intuitive apps to start streaming Netflix in no time but there aren’t Presets on Windows. - Surfshark
Unlimited device connections for streaming Netflix, but some servers connect slowly.
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Best VPNs for Netflix — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest VPN We Tested for Lag-Free Netflix Streaming From Anywhere
Tested December 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | Proprietary Lightway protocol offers extremely fast speeds for HD and UHD Netflix streaming from anywhere |
Local Speeds | Very fast, Netflix content loaded almost instantly |
Server Network | 3,000 servers in 105 countries that work reliably with Netflix |
Compatible With | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Chrome, Firefox, routers (native app), and more |
ExpressVPN is my favorite because it’s the fastest VPN for Netflix streaming. During our latest tests, we connected to its UK servers and recorded an average download speed of 226.07 Mbps (only a 1% drop from our base connection). This allowed us to stream the Netflix UK library in UHD with no issues. ExpressVPN also had no problem streaming 20 other Netflix libraries in the best possible quality.
This is also the only VPN I’ve tested that offers a native router app and firmware. This means you can install the VPN on your router in just a few minutes and start streaming Netflix securely on smart TVs, gaming consoles, and set-top boxes that don’t support VPNs. Or, you can make life even easier by purchasing its Aircove or Aircove Go router — these come pre-installed with ExpressVPN, so you can stream Netflix securely from anywhere, on any device.
I like that ExpressVPN is very user-friendly and compatible with most operating systems. Its apps are intuitive and consistent through a whole range of devices, so you won’t have problems using it on your iPhone, iPad, Android phone, or laptop. It also has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi that work like remote controls for the VPN app. Most VPNs only offer extensions for Chrome and Firefox, so this is great to see.
The only downside is that the price is a bit higher than most VPNs on my list, starting from $4.99/month. However, it’s one of the most reliable Netflix VPNs, and it offers frequent discounts and deals throughout the year. You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free with Netflix as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the service, you can get all your money back.
Useful Features
- Split tunneling. It allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t when you’re watching Netflix. We were able to boost our speeds slightly by only using the VPN to watch Netflix privately. We could then use our regular connection to order takeout food with no issues.
- MediaStreamer. This is ExpressVPN’s Smart DNS service, which is a good, beginner-friendly alternative to installing the VPN on your router for streaming on VPN-incompatible devices. By changing a few settings in your smart TV or gaming console, you can stream Netflix in the best available quality on the big screen. Just note that this is only available in certain Netflix regions.
- Works on restricted networks. If you find yourself on a network that restricts VPN use or streaming, such as in certain offices, libraries, or schools, ExpressVPN can help. It uses advanced techniques to obfuscate your traffic, making it harder for these networks to detect and block your connection, allowing secure Netflix streaming from anywhere.
2. CyberGhost — Netflix-Optimized Servers for Reliable Streaming Connections
Best Feature | Streaming-optimized servers for Netflix in multiple countries means you never have to guess which is the best option |
Local Speeds | Fast — we could watch Downtown Abbey on Netflix with no quality drops |
Server Network | 11,690 servers in 100 countries for buffer-free streaming of any Netflix library |
Compatible With | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Chrome, Firefox, routers (manual installation), and more |
CyberGhost’s dedicated Netflix servers are optimized for speed and routinely checked to ensure that they can access different Netflix libraries from anywhere in HD. We connected to its Netflix UK server and streamed Bullet Train with no buffering. We could also access other Netflix regions just as reliably in HD.
The VPN has good speeds for streaming in the best available quality that your Netflix plan allows. In general, the Netflix app provides better streaming quality than your browser. We found a speed drop of 11% when using the nearby UK streaming server. We have a Premium plan, so this minimal speed drop allowed us to watch in HD on the Chrome browser and UHD on a smart TV.
CyberGhost is also a great choice if you’ve never used a VPN with Netflix before. My favorite feature is Smart Rules, which lets you customize how the VPN behaves with Netflix. You can set it to automatically connect to a specific server when you open the Netflix app, ensuring you always have the best and fastest possible connection for streaming.
I was a bit surprised to learn that CyberGhost offers a shorter money-back guarantee on its 1-month plan than other VPNs. However, if you opt for a long-term subscription plan, you can test CyberGhost for free for 45 days and see if it suits your needs. If you’re not satisfied, claiming a refund is easy.
Useful Features
- Block Content. CyberGhost includes an ad-blocker that filters out intrusive ads and malicious websites. Although it won’t block ads on Netflix's ad-supported plan, it can detect and block phishing attempts and fake Netflix websites, helping to protect your sensitive information and your devices.
- 7 simultaneous connections. Depending on your plan and your location, you can stream Netflix simultaneously on up to 4 devices. With CyberGhost, your household can stream in the best available quality on as many devices as your plan allows while having devices to spare for secure browsing, gaming, and more.
- Quick connections. Click the star next to the Netflix VPN server for your location, and it’ll be added to your favorites list for quick connection next time you want to stream.
3. Private Internet Access — Massive Network Provides Thousands of Servers for Streaming Netflix Securely
Best Feature | Large server network helps to prevent server overcrowding, so you don’t have to hop around to find a lag-free server |
Local Speeds | Very fast; we had no buffering at all with Netflix |
Server Network | 29,650 servers in 91 countries to safely access Netlfix from anywhere |
Compatible With | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Chrome, Opera, routers (manual installation), and more |
Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out with its expansive server network that makes it easy to access Netflix in HD globally. You don’t need to worry about server overcrowding, which can cause slowdowns or disconnections. If any server encounters problems, thousands of alternatives are readily available. We conducted tests on various libraries, and PIA worked consistently well for streaming during testing.
Its advanced customization options are particularly useful for optimizing your connection for Netflix. While WireGuard gave us the best speeds for streaming (just a 5% drop on a nearby UK server), you might prefer to use OpenVPN, as it’s slightly more secure. PIA lets you drop the encryption level slightly with this protocol, so it’s faster without sacrificing too much security.
Because of these customization options, PIA is better suited for experienced VPN users. It can be a little confusing for beginners. However, the apps come pre-configured, and the default settings work really well for Netflix.
PIA is competitively priced, with plans starting as low as $2.03/month. If you want to give it a try, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can effectively test it for free.
Useful Features
- Streaming-optimized servers. While these aren’t dedicated to specific platforms like CyberGhost’s, they still worked well for Netflix. In our tests, we connected to the UK streaming server and watched Killing Eve on Netflix UK in seamless HD.
- Unlimited devices. You can enjoy your downtime streaming Netflix without interruptions — if someone else wants to log onto the VPN, they can do so without logging you out.
4. NordVPN — Intuitive App Allows Beginners to Stream Netflix in HD With a Few Clicks
Best Feature | Interactive server map makes it easy to find nearby servers for Netflix streaming in good quality |
Local Speeds | Very fast; minimal speed drops, ideal for watching without buffering |
Server Network | 6,800 servers in 111 countries to avoid overcrowded and laggy servers |
Compatible With | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Chrome, Firefox, routers (manual installation), and more |
NordVPN offers one of the most user-friendly apps I've found, so it’s great if you’ve never used a Netflix VPN before. The server map makes it easy to connect to any location with a simple click. During our tests, we were able to install NordVPN and start watching Netflix on its UK servers in only 2 minutes.
Thanks to the NordLynx protocol, it offers great speeds for Netflix streaming. This protocol is built on top of WireGuard to improve some of its security vulnerabilities while maintaining its fast speeds. We had a speed drop of only 5% on local servers — as fast as PIA, but not quite on the same level as ExpressVPN.
The Presets feature is also very useful — we created a one-click rule to connect to a UK server using NordLynx for fast and secure access to Netflix UK. The only downside is that it’s only available for macOS, but NordVPN’s customer support told me it’s coming to more operating systems soon.
You can test NordVPN for free by making use of its 30-day money-back guarantee. Getting a refund is quick and hassle-free.
Useful Features
- SmartPlay. This provides more reliable connections for Netflix streaming because it’s an automatic feature that combines the best of a Smart DNS and a VPN.
- Meshnet. This feature can help you connect to your Netflix account from different networks without getting flagged for sharing passwords. It lets you create something similar to a LAN with up to 60 devices sharing one IP. This comes in handy if you want to watch Netflix while not connected to your home network.
5. Surfshark — Unlimited Connections for Uninterrupted Netflix Streaming on Any Device
Best Feature | Make full use of your Netflix account’s device limit without leaving any other device unprotected; great for security in large households |
Speed | Fast; no buffering, but episodes took a little longer to load |
Server Network | 3,200 servers in 100 countries for fast connections |
Compatible With | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Chrome, Firefox, routers (manual installation), and more |
Surfshark is an ideal VPN for larger households of streaming fans, thanks to its unlimited device connections. We connected an iPad, iPhone, Windows laptop, and MacBook to the same UK server and could stream Netflix UK on all 4 devices with no quality drops or buffering.
While a tad slower than other VPNs on the list, Surfshark gave us great speeds with an average 13% drop on nearby UK servers. It can sometimes take over 30 seconds to connect to a server, but once the connection was established, it worked consistently.
If you want to take Surfshark’s intuitive apps for a free test run, you can use its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Useful Features
- Bypasser. With Bypasser, you can choose which apps or websites bypass the VPN connection. This is beneficial for watching Netflix without interference, as it allows you to stream securely while using your regular connection for other activities like ordering food.
- Camouflage mode. If Surfshark detects restrictions on your network, it will automatically obfuscate your traffic to hide the fact you are using a VPN. This will let you stream on Netflix securely, even on restrictive networks like those at work or school.
Quick Comparison Table: Best Netflix VPN Features
Below, you'll find a table summarizing the top features of my recommended VPNs for Netflix. Fast speeds and extensive server networks are crucial for buffer-free Netflix streaming from anywhere. A good VPN for streaming should also have enough device connections for you to use all of your allowed Netflix simultaneous streams and have a reliable money-back guarantee.
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Netflix Libraries Each VPN Can Access
Our global team and I did extensive testing to see how each VPN works with our respective Netflix libraries. Here’s how to read the results:
- ✅Works — the VPN worked with the library on the first attempt.
- 🔶Some Difficulties — the VPN worked with the library, but it took multiple attempts and may have required some troubleshooting to get working.
- ❌Doesn’t work — the VPN did not work reliably with the library once in all our attempts, despite troubleshooting.
The results for the most popular libraries:
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Netflix
We thoroughly tested these VPNs for Netflix to ensure they can securely access your favorite content from anywhere. We checked that each has a reliable server network and fast speeds, so you can enjoy HD streaming. Plus, good device compatibility is important, so you can watch Netflix on your go-to gadgets. It was also important for us to make sure each of these services is highly secure and safe to use, so your data isn’t compromised.
For a deep dive into our testing criteria, visit our testing methodology page. Here, you’ll find the lowdown on the methods our international team of researchers use to bring you the latest updates. Feel free to use it as the basis for your own tests.
Quick Guide: How to Watch Netflix With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. My top recommendation is ExpressVPN. It has a large and reliable server network and fast speeds, so you can watch Netflix in HD or UHD from anywhere.
- Connect to a server. Nearby servers are usually the fastest for streaming in the best possible quality.
- Start streaming. Log in to your Netflix account or buy a subscription if you don’t already have one.
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
VPN Not Working With Netflix? Try These Quick Troubleshooting Tips
There is nothing more frustrating than turning on Netflix and seeing this error message:
Looks like you’re connecting through a VPN, proxy or “unblocker” service. To start watching, please turn off any of these services and try again.
Error Code: C7037-1111-420
Not all VPNs are Netflix-compatible. They may have unreliable or choppy connections or fail to work with the service at all. Sometimes, Netflix can detect VPN use, which results in showing titles that are available worldwide, like Netflix Originals. If a VPN stops working with Netflix, there are a bunch of easy fixes that might get it working with the platform:
- Change servers. If a certain server doesn’t seem reliable, choosing another one might solve the issue.
- Use a different VPN protocol. Most VPNs let you switch between a few of these tunneling methods. Lightway, WireGuard, and OpenVPN are all reliable choices for Netflix.
- Use your browser. Sometimes VPNs struggle with the Netflix app, so switching to a browser can fix the problem. In addition, try different browsers — if Chrome isn’t working, try Microsoft Edge, Firefox, or any other browser you commonly use. You’ll drop down to streaming in HD if you’re not using the app, but it’s a small price to pay for privacy.
- Clear browser cache and cookies. You’ll find this option in your browser’s security or privacy settings.
- Disable IPv6. This is a little more involved than some of the other methods, but it’s worked for me before. You can normally find the option to disable this in your device’s network adapter settings.
- Reach out to customer support. When all else fails, it’s a good idea to contact support. That’s one reason why my favorite VPNs come with a 24/7 live chat service. A customer support agent should be able to recommend servers that they know currently work with Netflix.
- Try using obfuscation. You could be experiencing a network-wide VPN block. If you’re using a public WiFi network or one from school or work, turn on the obfuscation setting to hide your VPN use. ExpressVPN automatically obfuscates your traffic just by using its default Automatic protocol or Lightway.
Warning! These VPNs Don't Work With Netflix
Our tests revealed quite a few VPNs that claim to work with Netflix but don’t. I strongly recommend choosing one of the VPNs from the list above, but these are some you want to avoid in any case:
- Celo VPN. It couldn’t stream Netflix during our tests.
- Hola VPN. It does work with Netflix, but it’s too slow for UHD streaming. Hola VPN was also caught secretly using its users’ bandwidth.
- GetFlix. It couldn’t consistently access Netflix during our tests despite claiming it’s optimized for the platform.
- Norton Secure VPN. It defaults to Netflix Originals for some less popular libraries.
FAQs on Watching Netflix with a VPN
Can I watch Netflix with a VPN on an iPad, iPhone or Android?
Yes, you can watch Netflix securely with a VPN on any device that uses a major OS, like Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Leading VPNs typically provide dedicated applications for Android TVs and Amazon Fire devices too. Additionally, they often offer browser extensions compatible with Chrome and Firefox.
Certain VPNs even offer a Smart DNS feature, so you can watch Netflix in HD on devices traditionally incompatible with VPNs. This includes Apple TV, smart TVs, Xbox, and PlayStation. You can also set up a VPN on your router to share your VPN connection with other devices that aren’t natively VPN-compatible.
Also, if the device you want to watch Netflix on supports screencasting, simply use the VPN on a supported device and then screencast the stream. This way, you’ll be able to watch Netflix on any device with screencasting capabilities.
Is using a VPN for Netflix legal? Will Netflix ban me?
It depends on what content you're trying to watch and in which country. In most places, it’s legal to watch your regional Netflix while using a VPN. In some cases, when Netflix detects a VPN being used, it will only show you Netflix Originals. Because these are produced and licensed by Netflix itself, they’re available worldwide.
Additionally, some countries do ban or regulate VPN use due to heavy online censorship (countries like Iran, China, and Russia, for example). Using a VPN at all can be illegal in these places. So I recommend you check the laws and regulations in these countries before using a VPN there.
Can I watch Netflix US, Netflix Japan, or Netflix in other countries?
Yes, Netflix is available in the US, Japan, and other countries around the world, including Australia, Canada, and the Philippines. A premium VPN with a vast server network makes it possible to securely watch Netflix from anywhere in the best possible quality.
Why does Netflix block VPNs?
Netflix tries to block the use of VPNs in order to comply with licensing contracts. These contracts enforce restrictions to make specific titles only available in certain regions. Even if you’re using a VPN while streaming your local library, it might still block you if it detects your VPN use. Its VPN blocks are tough, which is why only a few VPNs still work with the service.
Can I use a free VPN while watching Netflix?
While it might work, I advise against it. Instead, I recommend you first test a budget-friendly premium VPN that offers a money-back guarantee. That way, you can get a refund if you’re not satisfied. And, you’ll be able to use a top-tier service with far better speeds, a larger server network, better privacy features, and no data caps.
What VPN for Netflix is recommended by Reddit?
Redditors agree that our #1 VPN is the best pick for Netflix. It’s favored for its fast speeds and ability to consistently access Netflix from anywhere in great quality. In our tests, it worked seamlessly with Netflix UK, with no noticeable difference in speeds from our baseline.
Bear in mind that opinions vary a lot depending on the subreddits you visit, and even the best services can get mixed reviews. When seeking advice on Reddit forums, it’s important to look at the date a specific comment was posted, as well as additional information that could affect the negativity (or positivity) of users' feedback.
Can I use a Netflix VPN to stream Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and other platforms?
Usually — a VPN that reliably works with Netflix often works with other streaming platforms like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. The VPNs listed in this article can access all these platforms securely in HD or UHD.
Get the Best VPN for Netflix
Finding a VPN that works reliably with Netflix can be a difficult task. Some VPNs simply don’t provide fast enough servers that can access the platform from anywhere in HD. Every VPN we recommend underwent rigorous testing to guarantee fast and dependable performance for streaming Netflix. What's more, these VPNs are compatible with the most popular devices.
ExpressVPN is my top pick for Netflix because it’s the fastest VPN we tested. Its servers can consistently access Netflix from anywhere in the best possible quality without any buffering. Over the course of multiple years of analysis, it’s also been the most reliable choice for Netflix. You can try ExpressVPN out for yourself. If you’re not satisfied, you have up to 30 days to claim a refund.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs to safely stream Netflix from anywhere...
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.
VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 82% off.
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