If you’re feeling blue because of Netflix’s limited content, don’t wave the white flag just yet! Get yourself a VPN, and you’ll be the king of the so-called streaming jungle. Yes, that’s right, you can start watching Netflix from any part of the world. Fortunately, VPNs don’t cost a pretty penny, as some would imagine. In fact, you can get one for as little as a latte at your local coffee house. Using Netflix VPN services will help users unlock exclusive shows and movies from across the world. This may mean being able to watch shows which aren’t yet available in your part of the world. Plus, you can indulge in foreign language shows as soon as they debut.
A Netflix VPN is also a fantastic traveling companion. Imagine you’re halfway into a show, but suddenly, it’s no longer available in your location. Don’t panic! Use your trusty VPN (any of our top picks below) to transport yourself back home to start your binge-watch fest.
To keep things fresh and exciting, we put the top VPN providers through their paces using real scenarios at once a month for our super fun review process. Plus, if needed we also adjust rankings; we do it faster than a cheetah chasing its prey. But before we dive into and start discussing why we’ve picked the VPN services that we did, it is essential to start with an understanding of what makes a VPN great for Netflix.
What Is The Ideal VPN To Bypass Netflix VPN Ban?
We know you’re all about speed and unlocking those Netflix libraries worldwide. But remember, your privacy is just as important as watching Netflix. You don’t want to compromise on one of the VPN’s main applications assuming it may not be a priority. In fact, privacy should be everyone’s priority, even if they intend to use the VPN on their desktop computer at home.
That’s why privacy, besides the VPN’s ability to stream Netflix, was one of the features we looked at. We have also discussed the privacy features of each VPN listed in this article. It is worth mentioning that some VPNs have many more privacy features than others. However, if you want to learn more about a VPN beyond its ability to unblock Netflix, read the full review for each one. We will also detail how the VPN server performs on average so that you can choose a service that’s right for your budget and needs.
Using a Netflix VPN is a cinch! Simply connect to a server located where you need to access exclusive content, so whether you’re traveling or just missing your favorite shows at home, choose the server accordingly. Then fire up Netflix, and you’re ready to watch Netflix; it can’t be any easier!
Our testing has revealed that NordVPN offers excellent reliability and access to different countries. But hold on to your hats because every VPN we have mentioned here has earned its place in the sun, at least based on our extensive testing. All you need is to choose one that’s the best fit and you’re off to the races or, in this case streaming service!
How Did We Choose The Best Netflix VPN?
To put things into context, we must say that not all VPNs do a good job of unlocking Netflix. The vast majority of VPN services don’t unblock Netflix; in fact, you can’t even access Netflix using them. That’s because the company (Netflix) is actively working on blocking VPNs from accessing it. So, the VPN service provider must work extra hard to ensure this feature is functional.
In our experience, many VPN providers have given up on unblocking Netflix, resulting in the notorious proxy error message. But all VPNs recommended in this article have been tested and found to work seamlessly with the streaming service. Plus, many services on this list continue to keep up with Netflix’s bans by updating their list of VPNs for Netflix, so if a couple of them get blocked, they have more to choose from and so you’re not left high and dry.
The other important feature is connection speeds. So, when it comes to video streaming, connection speeds are crucial to ensure smooth playback, particularly when viewing high-definition or 4K content. A database of several hundred servers can increase the likelihood of finding a fast and stable connection. Additionally, it’s advisable to select a VPN service with excellent support to troubleshoot any potential issues. Unfortunately, only a few VPN services have good support, especially if you are trying to get a hold of someone to help you solve a problem with the service, like finding a good streaming server.
Privacy and security are essential regardless of the purpose of using a Netflix VPN. A VPN with a “no logs” policy and robust encryption is necessary. After all, you don’t want anyone stealing your Netflix account, and that’s why we advise against using so-called free VPNs for this purpose. Furthermore, support for mobile devices and native clients for iOS/Android can enhance the convenience of streaming on the go. VPN users are treated to services on this list that have iOS and Android apps. In addition, they can also be installed on Amazon Fire TV sticks and other HD streaming devices.
It’s also a good idea to choose a VPN provider offering a money-back guarantee in case the VPN’s performance changes abruptly or is blocked in a particular country. Some countries, such as China and Iran, have entirely blocked Netflix, but with the help of our recommended VPN services, you can easily bypass such restrictions.
So, now that you are familiar with what we expect to see in a good, if not the best, VPN service, it’s time to start by highlighting our top picks in the next section. You will also want to check out our Netflix VPN Faqs towards the end of this article, which should answer most of your questions.
NordVPN
1
NordVPN
Expert ReviewVery Good
Listen up, folks! We’ve got the inside scoop on what makes NordVPN the best choice for unblocking Netflix.
First, it unblocks Netflix in not one, not two, but FIVE different countries! That means you can access all the exclusive content you want from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Yes, this means you can be anywhere in the world and stream Netflix content that’s exclusive to these regions or countries.
But wait, there’s more! NordVPN doesn’t stop there. It also unblocks other popular streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, ITVX, and Hulu. So you’ll never have to miss out on your favorite shows again. Apart from unblocking these video streaming services, it has some of the fastest servers in our experience. This means that your performance will only take a slight hit if you fire up Netflix via a VPN. That said, you should have a high-speed internet connection with over 10 Mbps if you want to stream Netflix content in 4K.
And the best part? NordVPN can be used on a wide range of devices, including Android and iOS. Plus, there is also support for streaming devices like Amazon Fire, Chromecast, Roku, and Apple TV. Some services may also support gaming consoles like the PlayStation and Xbox. So, no matter what you’re using to stream, NordVPN has your back. However, it has been our experience that setting up the service on some devices takes a bit more work than getting it to work on your phone and laptop computer.
But what about when you run into problems? Don’t worry; NordVPN offers around the clock customer support, so you can get help whenever needed.
Last but not least, NordVPN allows for simultaneous connections. That means you can share your subscription with family and friends without sacrificing security or speed. So, if you want to stream, now would be an excellent time to subscribe. Get NordVPN and start streaming like a boss.
Pros
- Excellent speed
- Very reliable connection
- Supports a boatload of locations
- Unblocks other streaming sites apart from Netflix
Cons
- The mobile app is temperamental at best
NordVPN
SurfShark VPN
2
SurfShark VPN
Expert ReviewVery Good
When it comes to unlocking Netflix, Surfshark VPN is a top choice due to its impressive capabilities beyond its being a reliable service.
It can unblock Netflix in popular regions such as the United States and the United Kingdom. There is also support for niche locations like Japan, nearby Canada, and now even Australia. This means that no matter where you are in the world, you can enjoy your favorite Netflix shows and movies without any restrictions.
Like any other self-respecting VPN service, Surfshark isn’t just limited to unblocking Netflix – it can also unblock other popular streaming services like Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, and ITVX. This means you’ll have access to a wealth of global content that would otherwise be unavailable in your region, but what else can SurfShark VPN do? Surely, you don’t only want to stream Netflix!
In addition to its streaming capabilities, Surfshark VPN offers an excellent suite of security features. It has polished apps available on numerous devices, including Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, and Xbox. Its servers have also been thoroughly audited, providing users with added security knowing that their data is safe, traveling to and from them.
Surfshark also offers 24/7 customer support, an excellent feature for those needing help with their VPN. Plus, it supports multiple connections at the same time, which makes Surfshark is an excellent choice for households or individuals with multiple devices. However, like all other Netflix VPN services, there are no free rides, which means there are limitations to what is offered, which you need to be aware of, especially if you want to start with the beginner tier of the service.
To start with, don’t expect support to be great. In our experience, it can take a while to get a hold of anyone working in the company’s support. Also, while the service supports many more devices than other VPNs on this list, it is also more expensive. But it may be worth it in a household with more than one Netflix subscription (not sure why that would be the case!)
Overall, if you’re looking for a fast, easy-to-use, and affordable VPN that can unblock Netflix and other popular streaming services, Surfshark VPN is an excellent choice.
The only other drawback than the one cited above but which might be significant for people on slower connections, is that the servers aren’t the fastest. Plus, the further away the server is from your location, the slower the connection. SurfShark VPN has no way of compensating for it with unusually faster servers like Express VPN. So, ensure your internet is fast enough to pick up where some servers may slack in connection speeds
Pros
- An affordable price for most people
- Easy-to-use app
- Excellent speeds on average
- Unblocks a range of locations so you can stream blocked content to your heart’s desire
Cons
- Not the best support in our experience
- Comparatively expensive
SurfShark VPN
Express VPN To Access Netflix
3
Express VPN
Expert ReviewVery Good
ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for those who want to unlock Netflix, as it can unblock content on most selected servers across all major countries like the ones we listed earlier.
In the rare case that a server doesn’t work, users can reach out to the 24/7 customer support team for assistance in finding the ideal server to connect to for their desired location. We did this a few times, and support was more than happy to help us out. The only problem is that you might have to wait a while to speak to someone on the other end, but at least they are making an effort.
We wanted to find a fast server to stream UK Netflix, and support gave us a couple of options. Plus, the service works like a charm on mobile devices thanks to its Android and iOS apps.
ExpressVPN offers access to many other popular streaming services, such as Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, ITVX, and Hulu, providing a more comprehensive range of content options. Additionally, ExpressVPN is available on various streaming devices, including Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, and Xbox.
However, it is worth noting that some ExpressVPN servers work better than others for unlocking regional versions of Netflix. Also, servers that unlock Netflix may not unlock Hulu, for instance. So, you must disconnect and re-connect to another server to stream from Hulu. However, you can have multiple devices using ExpressVPN, each streaming from a different streaming service provider without a problem, as long as your broadband connection holds up.
For users who with devices that don’t natively support having a VPN, the MediaStreamer DNS is available as an option. This allows users to access content on smart TVs and other devices that may not have built-in VPN support.
One potential drawback of ExpressVPN is that you can only have five connections running at the same time, which could be an issue for those who use a lot of devices. However, the VPN is still an excellent choice for users who want to stream on a few devices or are willing to log when someone else wants to use it. It also works well with VPN for your router, providing an easy way to connect multiple devices without hitting the simultaneous connection limit.
ExpressVPN also has excellent security features. The service uses robust encryption protocols, including AES-256 encryption, which is considered unbreakable thus it is used by banks and government agencies. This ensures that your internet traffic is protected and unreadable by anyone who might try to intercept it.
In addition to encryption, ExpressVPN has a “no-logs” policy, which means that it does not store any records of your online activity or connection logs which can be used to identify you. This protects your privacy and prevents third parties from gaining access to your personal information. This is especially important for users who want to indulge in Netflix streaming from countries known to be aggressively suppressive and employ tactics to get a hold of VPN server logs.
The Kill Switch feature automatically stops all internet traffic if the VPN’s connection is lost, ensuring that your data is not accidentally exposed to prying eyes. This feature is essential when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often insecure and susceptible to hacking attacks.
ExpressVPN uses what’s called TrustedServer technology, which runs all of its servers on RAM rather than hard drives. This ensures that no data is stored on the servers and that any data that may be temporarily stored is automatically wiped clean with each reboot, providing an extra layer of security.
Overall, with its Netflix unblocking capabilities, support for a wide range of streaming devices, and 24/7 customer support, ExpressVPN is a top contender for users looking for a reliable VPN service without compromising security.
Pros
- It supports many streaming devices
- Unblocks various streaming platforms apart from Netflix
- Newbie-friendly user interface and VPN app
- Excellent speeds on average
Cons
- We have been experiencing some issues after Netflix was updated, but nothing significant.
Express VPN
Proton VPN
4
Proton VPN
Expert ReviewVery Good
Proton VPN is a top choice for users who want to unlock Netflix, as it can reliably unblock US, UK, Canadian, Australian, and Japanese content on most of its servers.
In recent testing for this Proton VPN review, it outperformed other VPNs that previously ranked higher. Yes, this means Proton VPN has been actively working on improving its service, which is something we like to see since it means the service will only get better.
The VPN client is available on various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux, making it accessible to a broad spectrum of users. It also has an extensive network of servers, with over 1,900 servers in 67 countries, allowing for fast and reliable connections.
Proton VPN can also effectively unblock other popular streaming services, including Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Amazon, and Hulu, offering a more comprehensive range of content options. However, you will sometimes need to disconnect from one server and connect to another that supports it. Also, not all servers unblock Netflix effectively, so you might have to cycle through a few to land on one that works for you.
Regarding security, Proton VPN is a standout product, with features such as its Secure Core technology servers that route traffic via some very secure servers located in Switzerland and Iceland. It is also privacy-focused, providing users with a high level of protection when browsing the internet regardless of the VPN server location.
Additionally, Proton VPN offers a free VPN service for users who want to test the product before committing to a paid plan which is something we recommend because, unlike some other services, users get a 30-day money-back guarantee. Though keep in mind that the free version does not unblock Netflix. However, those who choose to pay for the premium plan can hook up to 10 devices supported simultaneously. This is many more devices than most others that have made it to our list. So this means that the price per user is considerably lower than the competition.
Proton VPN’s impressive Netflix unblocking capabilities, extensive server network, and robust security features make it an excellent choice for users who want to unlock Netflix and other streaming services while ensuring online privacy and security.
Pros
- Unblocks Netflix in many regions across the world
- It has a free version
- Secure VPN servers using advanced encryption algorithms
Cons
- Expensive compared to the competition
- The free version isn’t enough to unblock Netflix
- Not all servers are Netflix compatible
Proton VPN
Private Internet Access (PIA) For Streaming Netflix
5
Private Internet Access
Expert ReviewVery Good
We have been using Private Internet Access for a long time and have watched it develop from a budget service to one offering many premium features.
However, until late, unblocking Netflix and using it was hit or miss. That’s why it never made the cut to our best VPNs for Netflix rankings.
Private Internet Access (PIA) has since then made significant improvements to become a top choice for unblocking Netflix. In the latest testing round, PIA could unblock most locations on multiple servers, making it a serious contender. It also offers access to other streaming services, such as Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
The VPN’s WireGuard speeds may not be the fastest; they still average a middling 510Mbps, which is impressive. In addition, PIA offers excellent privacy features, making it a well-rounded VPN option.
Speaking of privacy, the most crucial feature of PIA is its strict no-logs policy. PIA does not store any records of user activity, including connection logs or browsing history. This means that even if a third-party requests user data, PIA has no information to provide, ensuring user privacy. This is very important for people living in countries with oppressive governments.
Another vital privacy feature is PIA’s robust encryption protocols, including AES-256 encryption. This encryption secures all data transmitted through the VPN, protecting user data from hackers and other bad actors.
PIA also includes a range of advanced features designed to enhance user privacy, including a kill switch that stops all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. Additionally, PIA supports port forwarding, which allows users to securely access services on their local network while using the VPN.
Furthermore, PIA offers several additional privacy features, such as DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, and WebRTC leak protection. These features ensure that user data is not inadvertently leaked through insecure connections. These security features make PIA an excellent option for unlocking Netflix and for those who often find themselves working from airports and coffee shops.
One of the most significant selling points of PIA is its affordability. It’s a serious bargain, making it an excellent choice for those who want to unlock Netflix and watch the latest programming on a budget. Plus, with the ability to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously and 24/7 customer support, PIA is a solid choice for anyone looking to unlock streaming services such as Netflix.
Pros
- Lots of features in addition to unlocking Netflix
- Kill switch and many other excellent security features
- It quickly unlocks US Netflix
Cons
- Speeds aren’t the best
- The interface could be easier to use on mobile devices.
Private Internet Access
The Bottom Line
The best VPN for Netflix requires careful consideration when selecting which one works best for your needs. A good VPN should have lightning-fast speeds, robust encryption features, a reliable network of servers, and user-friendly applications across all platforms. Ultimately, you have the power to pick what works best for you.
While no single VPN is perfect for everyone, the above options that we’ve tested represent the best available for accessing Netflix content in 2023.
FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions people ask.
Our team conducts regular testing to ensure we provide our users with the latest information. Here is what we did in a nutshell:
First, we activate the VPN and connected to an automatic server selected in the country we want to test. This represents what most users would typically do.
Next, we go to Netflix to access content exclusive to, let’s say, Japan or Canada (whichever we are testing). We do this on both a regular browser and incognito mode first and then try it in private mode, taking note of any differences. We repeat this process several times to ensure consistency.
Finally, we record the results, which are then used as a basis to update our guides or articles as needed.
Netflix content varies depending on where you are in the world, with some shows being exclusive to certain countries. For instance, while the US and Canada have much content, they still need to catch up on some shows available in other countries. Japanese Netflix, for example, has a wide variety of anime that can’t be found elsewhere.
Now for people who travel, using a VPN is essential since they might be unable to access the shows they are currently watching. Additionally, investing in one is an excellent idea if those users want to access multiple Netflix libraries than what’s available in their home country. Furthermore, you can use the VPN to secure browsing activities on all your devices, including desktop PCs and mobile devices.
A. Streaming services, in general, are constantly taking measures to prevent VPNs from accessing their content, which can be frustrating for users trying to watch content from other countries. It may also make some users believe that doing this is illegal when it is not.
Even though the 5x VPNs listed in this article will prove to be reliable and consistently unblock your favorite shows on Netflix, there is always a possibility that certain servers may become unavailable. In such cases, we recommend contacting the service’s support team directly. As many users prioritize streaming support, the support team will likely do everything possible to connect you to a server quickly. Fortunately, all services we tested above were happy to provide us with alternative server lists when we asked why Netflix was not working.
Choosing the right Netflix VPN could unlock exclusive content on Netflix and help you access other popular streaming services such as NBC’s Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, iPlayer, and numerous others. However, it’s important to note that not all VPNs can unblock every streaming service, so checking before you pay is always recommended.
It’s best to go through a full review of the VPN provider you’re considering purchasing to ensure it can meet all your streaming needs and expectations. You will also want to contact support because information can change frequently.
Netflix licenses shows for distribution, and not all content is necessarily owned by Netflix. If your favorite show is licensed by, let’s say, Hulu in a certain country, you will not be able to stream it in that country on Netflix.
So blocking VPNs allows Netflix to comply with its licensing agreement. When you access content via a virtual private network (VPN), it becomes Netflix’s responsibility. By enabling you to watch content not licensed in your location, Netflix is not upholding preset laws regarding copyright, but that isn’t something you are subject to. However, this isn’t illegal for users to do.
Do you yearn to unlock the treasures of Netflix’s hidden library or at least what’s hidden in your location? Using Netflix VPN, it’s as easy as a few clicks of your mouse.
Here is a scenario: You’re in the US and want to watch shows only available in the UK or Canada. Or maybe you’re in the UK and dying to get your hands on American Netflix’s bounty. Fear not, me hearty! With a trusty VPN, you can access them all.
Getting started is as easy as hoisting the Jolly Roger. Install the VPN you choose on your device, whether it’s your trusty Windows or Mac or mobile device(s) like iOS or Android. Some VPNs can be installed on gaming consoles and Amazon Fire Stick.
Once you are all set up, you need only to select a server in the country you want to ‘appear’ to be in. And like magic, you’ll have access to a new world of shows and movies. But beware! Netflix doesn’t want you to dig up their buried treasure without permission. It’s against their terms and conditions, so proceed at your own risk. But fear not, for we’ve never heard of a scallywag getting their account suspended for using a VPN. I guess that’s why there are now so many Netflix VPN providers.
Netflix uses the country code associated with every IP address to reroute or restrict network access. To access the US Netflix library from abroad, users must hop from one location to another, as most VPN providers have servers in various cities and countries worldwide. Although this process can be a bit cumbersome, it is effective.
However, it is essential to note that not all servers will work, so it is advisable to contact the VPN provider’s customer support to find out which servers are currently functional for the streaming service you want to use. Leading VPN providers, like ExpressVPN, are working hard to stay ahead of the Netflix VPN ban. They are consistently working on acquiring new IP addresses and regularly cycling them out to replace blocked ones. When Netflix detects and blocks a specific IP, the VPN provider switches to a different one and directs customers to use that location to stream content. So, it’s like a game of never-ending whack-a-mole but one that you, as a Netflix subscriber, can take advantage of.
