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Best VPN for Netflix

By Simon Migliano | Updated March 31, 2020

Illustration of a laptop streaming via VPN

To bypass Netflix’s location restrictions and unblock all the ‘hidden’ TV series and movies, you need to know what’s the best VPN for Netflix.

Unfortunately, not all VPNs work with Netflix. But don’t worry — we’re here to help.

Our team of experts regularly tests 72 VPNs to see if they unblock Netflix libraries in the US, the UK, and in many more countries.

The VPNs we recommend below will give you reliable buffer-free access to Netflix from anywhere in the world — granting you free access to the Studio Ghibli movies, Friends, The Office, and so much more.

Essential VPN Features for Netflix

  1. Reliably unblock Netflix libraries
  2. Fast speeds for buffer-free streaming
  3. VPN servers in desirable Netflix locations
  4. Apps for major streaming devices
  5. Advanced privacy & security features
  6. Great customer support

Wondering why you should trust our reviews?
See How We Review VPNs.

The Best VPNs for Netflix

1. ExpressVPN

Ranked #1 out of 72 VPNs for Netflix

ExpressVPNExpressVPN MacOS app screenshots
 98% 
(1,711 user reviews)
Visit Expressvpn.com
  1. Unblocks 8 Netflix libraries
  2. Great speeds for streaming
  3. Custom app for Amazon Fire TV Stick
  4. MediaStreamer works on Apple TV
  5. 24/7 live chat support
  6. Loads of privacy extras
  1. Shorter plans are expensive

  • Best Price

    $6.67/mo over 15 Months

    See all plans

  • Top Speedi

    85Mbps same city speed

    Based on a 100Mbps test connection

  • Servers

    94 countries, 3,000+ servers

  • Compatible with

    • Windows logoWindows
    • Mac logoMac
    • iOS logoiOS
    • Android logoAndroid
    • Linux logoLinux

The Bottom Line

ExpressVPN is hands-down the best VPN service for Netflix – it’s never let us down over thousands of tests.

Thanks to its consistently impressive speeds across its VPN server network, streaming Netflix in buffer-free 4K UHD with ExpressVPN is a total breeze, no matter where you are in the world.

You can currently unlock 8 Netflix libraries: US, UK, Australia, Canada, France, Italy, Japan, and Germany.

ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer works on Apple TV and its custom app for Amazon Fire TV is a great bonus for those looking to stream Netflix on their TV, too.

ExpressVPN is incredibly secure, too, with a minimal logs policy and a ton of privacy extras designed to keep you as safe as possible online.

All of ExpressVPN’s apps operate on OpenVPN, the most secure connection protocol, and there’s also a VPN kill switch to protect you in case of connection drops.

Even better, live chat is available on ExpressVPN’s website 24/7, so you’ll be able to get immediate help if you ever do encounter the dreaded Netflix proxy error message and need some help.

For a more in-depth look, read our full ExpressVPN review.

2. CyberGhost

Ranked #2 out of 72 VPNs for Netflix

CyberGhostCyberGhost app on windows desktop
 94% 
(270 user reviews)
Visit Cyberghost.com
  1. Unblocks 4 Netflix libraries
  2. Fast same-country speeds
  3. Optimized servers for streaming
  4. Custom Firestick app
  5. Strict zero-logs policy
  6. 24/7 live chat support
  1. No P2P or Kodi on Firestick

  • Best Price

    $2.75/mo over 3 years

    See all plans

  • Top Speedi

    87Mbps same city speed

    Based on a 100Mbps test connection

  • Servers

    90 countries, 7,100+ servers

  • Compatible with

    • Windows logoWindows
    • Mac logoMac
    • iOS logoiOS
    • Android logoAndroid
    • Linux logoLinux

The Bottom Line

CyberGhost is a good budget VPN that works well with Netflix US, UK, France and Germany. Other Netflix libraries are currently blocked.

The dedicating streaming servers make it easy to stream Netflix, even if its speeds don’t quite match up to those provided by ExpressVPN.

A native CyberGhost VPN app for the Amazon Fire TV Stick is very useful, though, and its user-friendly apps are very easy to set up on other platforms, too.

CyberGhost’s strict no-logs policy is good news for user privacy, along with the security features included in its apps, such as a VPN kill switch and protection against DNS leaks.

We really like that CyberGhost’s apps are all encrypted with top cipher AES-256, plus they operate exclusively on the OpenVPN protocol.

Live chat support is provided around the clock on CyberGhost’s website, so it’s on hand in case you encounter any problems while streaming Netflix.

For a more in-depth look, read our full CyberGhost review.

3. PrivateVPN

Ranked #3 out of 72 VPNs for Netflix

PrivateVPN Mobile App ScreenshotPrivateVPN app on Windows desktop
 98% 
(1,733 user reviews)
Visit Privatevpn.com
  1. Works with 19 Netflix libraries
  2. Excellent download speeds
  3. Labeled servers for streaming
  4. Custom app for Amazon Fire TV
  5. Strict zero-logs policy
  6. Live chat support
  1. Small number of individual servers
  2. Live chat not always available

  • Best Price

    $1.89/mo over 2 years

    See all plans

  • Top Speedi

    86Mbps same city speed

    Based on a 100Mbps test connection

  • Servers

    59 countries, 150+ servers

  • Compatible with

    • Windows logoWindows
    • Mac logoMac
    • iOS logoiOS
    • Android logoAndroid
    • Linux logoLinux

The Bottom Line

Now a well-established VPN service, PrivateVPN is a worthy rival to our top selections, especially when it comes to streaming Netflix.

As well as being one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested, PrivateVPN also makes it very easy to watch Netflix thanks to its specifically labeled VPN servers for streaming.

Not only that but it unblocks a staggering 19 Netflix libraries (!), although not that as consistently as our top recommendations.

These are the libraries you’ll have access to: US, UK, Canada, France, Japan, Germany, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and South Korea.

Even better, PrivateVPN maintains a strict zero-logs policy, ensuring you remain totally safe while streaming Netflix, and the desktop app comes with a VPN kill switch.

PrivateVPN operates on OpenVPN, too, which is the most secure VPN protocol you can use without compromising on speed.

PrivateVPN’s server network is on the small side, though, so depending on where you are in the world, you may not get the best download speeds possible.

Live chat is also not always available on PrivateVPN’s website, so you could be waiting a while for a response if you have any issues streaming Netflix, although this isn’t something we’ve ever experienced.

For a more in-depth look, read our full PrivateVPN review.

4. NordVPN

Ranked #4 out of 72 VPNs for Netflix

NordVPN Mobile App ScreenshotNordVPN app on Windows desktop
 94% 
(243 user reviews)
Visit Nordvpn.com
  1. Easy access to 7 Netflix libraries
  2. Excellent same-country speeds
  3. Completely no-logs policy
  4. Simple setup on all devices
  5. 24/7 live chat support
  1. No access to Netflix using Firestick app

  • Best Price

    $3.49/mo over 36 Months

    See all plans

  • Top Speedi

    93Mbps same city speed

    Based on a 100Mbps test connection

  • Servers

    58 countries, 5,500+ servers

  • Compatible with

    • Windows logoWindows
    • Mac logoMac
    • iOS logoiOS
    • Android logoAndroid
    • Linux logoLinux

The Bottom Line

If you want a reliable, cheap VPN service that works for Netflix, NordVPN is a good choice.

That is unless you want to watch Netflix on Firestick or any other streaming device.

You can watch Netflix (and other streaming platforms) using the desktop and mobile VPN apps but, unfortunately, Netflix is blocked via NordVPN’s Firestick custom app or through router connections.

However, if you don’t need to watch Netflix on your streaming device, NordVPN is an excellent choice and you can watch videos from 7 Netflix libraries: US, UK, Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Italy.

NordVPN comes with a ton of extra security features to keep you safe online, and the no-logs policy means none of your personal information is collected or stored.

NordVPN’s custom VPN apps protect against DNS and IP leaks when you use the service, too.

The customer support team is available 24/7 through the live chat feature on NordVPN’s website, so any potential issues you encounter while streaming Netflix will be solved quickly.

We also feel it’s important to make you aware of a security incident involving NordVPN.

In October 2019 it came to light that a NordVPN server had been breached by a hacker. No user information was taken, no data was logged, and the VPN encrypted tunnel wasn’t compromised.

That said, it exploited a worryingly simple vulnerability, and we were disappointed by NordVPN’s delayed response. NordVPN is still a very good VPN, but it’s something to consider before you buy. You can find out more information in our full NordVPN review.

For a more in-depth look, read our full NordVPN review.

5. Surfshark

Ranked #5 out of 72 VPNs for Netflix

Surfshark mobile screenshotsSurfshark desktop screenshot
 66% 
(12 user reviews)
Visit Surfshark.com
  1. Quick access to 14 Netflix libraries
  2. Fast VPN speeds on nearby servers
  3. No-logs policy
  4. Sleek custom VPN app for Amazon Fire TV Stick
  5. Easy setup on a range of devices
  6. 24/7 live chat support
  1. Top speeds lag behind other VPN picks

  • Best Price

    $1.99/mo over 24 Months

    See all plans

  • Top Speedi

    85Mbps same city speed

    Based on a 100Mbps test connection

  • Servers

    61 countries

  • Compatible with

    • Windows logoWindows
    • Mac logoMac
    • iOS logoiOS
    • Android logoAndroid
    • Linux logoLinux

The Bottom Line

Founded in 2018, Surfshark is a new addition to the VPN market, but has already proven itself to be a solid choice for streaming fans, particularly if you watch Netflix.

Unlike CyberGhost and PrivateVPN, Surfshark doesn’t come with well-labeled streaming VPN servers, but there are plenty of US servers that work with Netflix.

In addition to the US, Surfshark unlocks a further 13 different Netflix libraries: UK, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, Netherlands, India, South Korea, Italy, Australia, Turkey, Brazil and Singapore.

The slight problem is that Surfshark isn’t as fast as the VPNs listed above, but if you connect to a nearby server it should be fast enough for buffer-free streaming.

There are a range of sleek custom VPN apps available for desktop and mobile devices, as well as one for Amazon Fire TV Stick, making streaming on your TV easy.

With no logging and a robust set of security features, Surfshark is a great VPN option for those who require high levels of privacy as well as Netflix access.

For a more in-depth look, read our full Surfshark review.

Popular Questions about Netflix VPNs

How to Use a VPN to Unblock Netflix

A man breaking through a wall with a hammer to reveal the Netflix logoThese are the most best ways to unblock Netflix using a VPN for the most popular devices for streaming:

  1. For PC and Mac

    Download, install and launch the VPN, select your preferred server location (e.g. USA for American Netflix), and launch the Netflix website.

    If you get an error screen, try clearing your cookies and browsing history if you haven’t already, and open Netflix again.

    If you use Chromecast, or you have an Android TV, you can also cast your computer screen onto your TV screen.

  2. For Smartphones

    Install one of the above VPN services on your smartphone. Connect to your preferred VPN server location, launch the Netflix site or app, and begin streaming.

    Again, if you have a Chromecast or an Android TV you can stream Netflix on your TV easily.

  3. For Amazon Fire TV Stick

    If you use an Amazon Fire TV Stick or a Fire TV Cube to stream shows, ExpressVPN, IPVanish, or PrivateVPN will be your best choices to watch Netflix.

    Screenshot of ExpressVPN's Firestick app

    The home page of ExpressVPN’s Amazon Firestick app

    All of these VPN services offer custom Firestick VPN apps and provide reliable access to Netflix, as well as a whole host of other popular streaming sites.

    Take a look at the best VPNs for Firestick if you’re planning on mainly using this device to watch Netflix.

  4. For Games Consoles

    You have several options here, including setting the VPN up on your router, sharing your computer’s internet connection with your console, or using ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer.

    To install a VPN on your home router, take a look at our VPN router setup guide.

    For best results, always look out for VPN servers optimized for streaming.

Don’t worry if you get a proxy error when accessing Netflix – simply try a different VPN server, or clear your web browser cookies and try again.

Alternatively, contact your VPN service and its support agents can tell you which VPN servers to use to watch Netflix.

Do I Need a VPN to Watch Netflix?

Yes, you’ll need a VPN to stream all the geo-restricted content on Netflix.

You can certainly watch Netflix without a VPN, but you’ll be limited to the video content available in your country.

For example, if you live in Hong Kong you’re only getting 10% of the movies and TV shows available in the US library!

With a good VPN you can connect to a VPN server in almost any country in the world, bypassing geo-blocks and accessing video content that wouldn’t otherwise be available to you.

What's the Netflix VPN Ban?

In January 2016, Netflix began blocking VPN, proxy and smart DNS services.

Why?

Because by then it was well known that Netflix subscribers were using VPN and proxy services to unblock geo-restricted video libraries.

As a result, Netflix gave in to pressure from large copyright holders, who profit from content geo-restrictions as these allow them to sell their content in different locations around the world.

Is it Illegal to Use Netflix with a VPN?

No, it’s actually not illegal to watch Netflix with a VPN.

However, using a VPN to access Netflix content that isn’t usually available in your location is against its Terms of Service.

Screenshot of Netflix's Terms of Service

This means that Netflix will block your connection if it suspects you’re using a VPN or a proxy.

Netflix Proxy Error Fix

When you use a not-so-good (or a free) VPN to stream Netflix, it’s all too common to see the dreaded Netflix Proxy Error message.

Screenshot of the Netflix proxy error

If you’re using one of our five VPN recommendations, this is usually easily solved by clearing your browsing history and cookies, then relaunching Netflix. Alternatively, simply connect to a different VPN server location.

Most VPN services will be aware if their IP addresses are being blocked by Netflix, so often the best option is to simply ask their customer service for help. They’ll quickly tell you which servers are working for Netflix.

How Does Netflix Detect VPN?

Netflix is able to block IP addresses it knows belong to a VPN or proxy service in order to prevent users from streaming geo-locked content.

How Netflix screens for IP addresses associated with VPNs or proxies is not entirely known, but there are a number of behaviours which will set these IPs apart from genuine ones, such as a large influx in the number of accounts attempting to stream from a single IP.

Once a single IP has been identified as associated with a VPN, Netflix can ban a whole block of IPs located at the same server or operated by the same company.

Only the VPN services we’ve recommended – along with a handful of others – are able to circumnavigate these blocks and allow you to stream Netflix without any issues.

What's the Best Free VPN for Netflix?

The problem with free VPN services is that they very rarely work for Netflix due to limited server locations and stingy data caps. Some free VPNs are also so slow that you’d struggle to stream any content from Netflix, let alone in good quality.

We’re yet to find any safe free VPNs that work for Netflix, other than Avira Phantom VPN, which seems to work intermittently. It also comes with a stingy 1GB monthly data cap, though, making it a less than ideal for watching Netflix.

If you’d like to test out how well a VPN service works with Netflix before you sign up to a subscription, we recommend taking advantage of VPN free trials and money-back guarantees.

We’ve also published a handful of guides showing you how to get premium VPN services for free (for a limited amount of time), including:

Can I Watch Netflix Abroad?

You can use Netflix in pretty much any country in the world, so no matter where you live or are planning on traveling to, you should be able to stream your favorite TV series and movies no problem.

Illustration of a map showing the countries in which Netflix is available

There are a handful of exceptions, though. Netflix is currently unavailable in:

  • China
  • Crimea
  • North Korea
  • Syria

This is due to U.S. government restrictions on American companies. The best way to watch Netflix from any of these countries is to use a VPN that beats aggressive online censorship.

How Can I Watch Netflix on Blocked WiFi?

Watching Netflix on blocked WiFi is as easy as downloading a VPN that works with the service, connecting to a server, and watching it through that.

Don’t be put off if you see a Netflix proxy error when you first try to connect – clearing your cookies and cache should normally solve this problem.

If you’re still unable to access Netflix, simply select a different VPN server location until you find one that works. Alternatively, reach out to your VPN provider for the best advice.

Screenshot of the live chat feature on ExpressVPN's website discussing Netflix

VPNs That Don't Work With Netflix

Put simply, the majority of VPN services don’t provide reliable access to Netflix. These include:

This is by no means an exhaustive list, either. The five VPN services we recommend are by far the most reliable for streaming Netflix – others may work temporarily but are usually blocked within a week or two.

Avoid free VPN services altogether if you’re hoping to access Netflix, too. Bypassing the regularly-changing VPN blocks costs a lot of money, and just isn’t something you can expect from a free VPN.

About the Author

  • Simon Migliano Head of Research at Top10VPN

    Simon Migliano

    Simon is our Head of Research and has tested hundreds of VPNs since 2016. His research has been covered by the BBC, The New York Times, CNet, Wired, and more. Read full bio

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