Best VPN for Netflix in 2023 - Stream Netflix from Anywhere

Want to stream Netflix while on vacation? This guide explains how and recommends the best VPNs for Netflix.

Arriving at your hotel after a long journey and eager to relax with your favorite Netflix show, only to discover it's not available in your current location? We've all been there. Netflix's vast library is subject to licensing agreements and copyright restrictions, resulting in different content offerings in each country. But here's the good news: You can regain access to your regular Netflix catalog by using a VPN for Netflix.

However, there's a catch. Netflix is aware of VPNs and their potential to bypass geo-restrictions. Due to mounting legal pressure, Netflix has invested in measures to block VPNs and prevent users from streaming abroad. As a result, most VPNs have already been blocked.

Despite being caught in a game of cat and mouse with Netflix, a few VPNs have invested in advanced server technologies and IP addresses that are hard for Netflix to detect. This means they can keep providing safe access to multiple Netflix regions around the globe.

In this guide, we'll explore the best VPNs for Netflix and walk you through how to use a Netflix VPN from anywhere. 

When it comes to enjoying unrestricted access to Netflix's extensive content library, you need a VPN that's tailor-made for the task. Not all VPNs can reliably bypass geo-restrictions, but we've curated a list of the very best VPNs that excel in providing a flawless Netflix streaming experience. Our recommendations are fast enough to stream in HD, and they have servers in multiple regions that work to watch Netflix on vacation.

Below, you can take a quick look at our top Netflix VPN recommendations. Scroll down for in-depth summaries that will help you pick between them.

The best VPNs for Netflix:

1. NordVPN: Best VPN for Netflix. Reliably works with US Netflix and other regions like the UK, Canada, and Japan. Super-fast NordLynx protocol. Super secure apps with many advanced features. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best budget option for Netflix. Reliable VPN for streaming abroad. Supports the super-fast WireGuard protocol. Allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Strict no-logs policy. 
3. ExpressVPN: Fast and privacy-conscious service. Works with a wide range of Netflix libraries. Also compatible with Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, and other popular streaming platforms. 
4. CyberGhost: Excellent speeds and an extensive server network. Works well with Netflix US and other regional libraries. User-friendly apps are suitable for new VPN users. 
5. PrivateVPN: Impressive speeds and versatile apps for all platforms. Successfully accesses US Netflix and 15+ other libraries. An excellent choice for streaming your favorite movies or shows on vacation, but isn’t as fast as our other top picks.
6. AtlasVPN: Reasonably priced VPN with excellent speeds. Ideal for streaming, and works with many Netflix regions. It is compatible with many other popular streaming platforms. Includes ad blocking and allows unlimited connections.

Summary Table

Choosing the right VPN for your Netflix streaming needs can be daunting, especially if you're new to the world of VPNs. Many VPN providers make exaggerated claims about their speed and security features.

It is easy to stumble on VPNs that suffer from critical issues such as DNS leaks, weak encryption, or other vulnerabilities that compromise your online privacy and security. This makes those VPNs unfit for purpose. In addition, most VPNs fail to work with Netflix, so you have to choose carefully. 

We pinpointed providers that offer reliable features and robust security for streaming Netflix at work or abroad with complete privacy. Below, you can see some criteria we use to curate our list of the best VPNs for Netflix:

• Consistently and reliably accesses Netflix
• Fast enough to stream content in HD quality
• Prompt and capable customer support
• Robust digital security and privacy measures for secure access to Netflix and other streaming services
• Compatibility with a wide range of popular devices
• Backed by a money-back guarantee
• Offers a diverse selection of servers
• Ensures consistently reliable connections
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have also had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third-party

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for Netflix, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

Best Netflix VPNs: Detailed reviews

The summaries below provide a comprehensive breakdown of the features offered by the top Netflix VPNs. While all our recommendations prioritize utmost security, each VPN brings its unique strengths to the table. Our summaries shine a spotlight on the specific advantages of each Netflix VPN.

NordVPN is our favorite VPN for streaming. It works to watch over a dozen Netflix regions through your browser or the app, and it works with tons of other international streaming platforms, including Hulu, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer.

Many of NordVPN's streaming-optimized servers work with Netflix, but if the server you are using doesn't work with the local Netflix library, it will automatically redirect you to the US catalog instead (which is known to be the largest). 

NordVPN offers a wallet-friendly two-year subscription, allowing you to connect up to six streaming devices simultaneously. You can access NordVPN using apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, making it a convenient choice for a wide range of devices. You can also install it on VPN-compatible routers. Linux users get a command-line app.

In addition to its streaming capabilities, NordVPN prioritizes security and privacy. It offers solid encryption, a split tunneling feature, and a system-level kill switch for added protection. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol, a custom WireGuard fork, ensures blazing-fast and reliable connections for uninterrupted streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

A bunch of advanced features include Double VPN, obfuscated servers, Meshnet, split tunneling, Tor over VPN, ad blocking and malware filtering, and a free Smart DNS service to help you stream on devices that won't let you install a VPN directly.

NordVPN's security is bolstered by diskless servers that run in RAM. Thorough third-party audits offer peace of mind while enjoying your favorite shows and movies and you can try it yourself using its risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 

BEST VPN FOR NETFLIX: NordVPN is our favorite VPN for Netflix streaming. Works to access content from Netflix in the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and around a dozen more. With blazing-fast speeds, robust privacy, and many advanced security features, NordVPN offers superb versatility and value for money. Has a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee,

Surfshark is a highly reputable VPN service that allows uninterrupted Netflix streaming no matter where your travels take you. Our extensive tests confirmed its compatibility with multiple Netflix regions, including the US, UK, France, Canada, and Japan. Plus, Surfshark can seamlessly access other popular streaming platforms like Hulu, Peacock, Sky, Disney+, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer, among others.

If you connect to a server in a region that doesn’t support Netflix, Surfshark will automatically redirect you to the US Netflix version, giving you access to the largest Netflix catalog, regardless of your location.

With a vast network of over 3,000 servers spanning 100+ countries, Surfshark ensures you never suffer from slow speeds or server congestion. You can choose between OpenVPN UDP and WireGuard protocols, guaranteeing quick connections for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

In our tests, we were able to stream in HD without annoying buffering, all while maintaining top-notch security. Surfshark is suitable for watching Netflix privately at work. Plus, its robust encryption protects your data from snoops and hackers, whether you connect at home or on public WiFi.

Surfshark makes user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Android. Unlimited simultaneous connections are perfect for sharing your account with friends and family. Additional features include a kill switch, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, ad blocking, and a complimentary Smart DNS feature. 24/7 live chat lets you ask questions any time of day, and you can try Surfshark using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

BEST AFFORDABLE NETFLIX VPN: A budget-friendly VPN that excels with accessing Netflix. No-logs policy prioritizes privacy. Fully audited apps and diskless servers for added protection. Easy to use and has plenty of advanced security features, including a kill switch. Allows unlimited connections. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN is another exceptional option for streaming Netflix, albeit at a slightly higher cost compared to NordVPN and Surfshark. The VPN proves its worth by letting you access more than 15 different Netflix regions, including the US, the UK, Canada, and Japan.

ExpressVPN works hard to stay ahead of Netflix blocks. The servers set aside for streaming may change periodically. So if you have any issues watching Netflix while connected to the server you usually use, you can contact its 24/7 live chat support to get advice on which alternate server to use.

During our tests, ExpressVPN exceeded the necessary speeds for streaming without any buffering. If you want the fastest speeds possible, we recommend using its proprietary Lightway protocol, which is the best option for gaming, streaming, torrenting, and making video calls.

You can connect up to five devices with a single ExpressVPN subscription, which is usually enough for most power users. Every ExpressVPN plan includes the MediaStreamer smart DNS proxy, which can access Netflix US on devices that typically don't support VPNs, such as game consoles or Apple TV devices. 

AES encryption ensures that you can watch Netflix privately at work or anywhere else. The VPN comes equipped with a kill switch and DNS leak protection. You can compare it to any of our recommendations using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

WATCH NETFLIX ANYWHERE: ExpressVPN is perfect for watching Netflix catalogs in multiple regions, including the US, UK, Australia, Canada, France, Italy, Japan, and Germany. Works with most streaming platforms around the world. Fast speeds for HD streaming. Allows torrenting. No log policy and robust AES encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost takes the hassle out of watching Netflix with just a few clicks, making it the best Netflix VPN for beginners. What sets CyberGhost apart is the app's streaming video section, which categorizes dedicated streaming servers based on what they access, not just their physical location. Netflix is prominently listed at the top, allowing you to find a server that works with Netflix without trial and error.

CyberGhost VPN users can give feedback in real time on whether a particular server works with Netflix by using simple thumbs-up and thumbs-down buttons. This allows the VPN to stay on top of any server problems, and to stay ahead of Netflix's VPN blocks.

You can access CyberGhost VPN on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Android. Those apps come with a kill switch, DNS leak protection, strong encryption, the WireGuard protocol, and built-in ad blocking. That is a pretty decent feature set for a VPN that starts at just $2.19 per month.

A strict no logs policy states the VPN never retains records of what you do while connected. Being based in Romania means it never has to comply with mandatory data retention directives. Customer support is available 24/7, and you can test it for 45 days, which is the longest money-back guarantee on this list. It also works with Hulu, HBO Max, iPlayer, and other popular streaming services. 

FANTASTIC VALUE: CyberGhost's apps are easy to use and clearly label streaming servers for each country. Works to access Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, and tons of other popular platforms. Solid no logging policy and strong encryption. Has a 45-day money-back guarantee.

PrivateVPN is one of the few market-leading VPNs that can safely access Netflix both in your browser and using the app. The VPN makes it a priority to keep providing access to a large choice of Netflix regions, as well as many other popular international streaming services. We found it can stream in HD without buffering, despite the fact that it is not as quick as the other recommendations in this guide.

Apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, allowing you to watch your favorite streams on any device. It boasts strong AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a trustworthy no logs policy. It also owns its entire network, which helps to keep it more secure. This makes it a decent option for gaining online privacy – whether you connect at home, on public WiFi, or at work.

Torrenting is well-supported as well. PrivateVPN apps allow port forwarding so you can better seed torrents. It has servers in 63+ countries, which gives you plenty of options for bypassing online censorship and region blocks.

You can test the VPN using its 30-day money-back guarantee. Ask questions and get help with PrivateVPN’s 24/7 live chat support. The biggest drawback is that it hasn't introduced WireGuard into its apps. However, you can connect to its servers using the third-party WireGuard client if you want to.

HIGHLY VERSATILE: PrivateVPN offers Netflix access in 15+ countries. Lets you connect up to 10 devices with a single account. Superb for torrenting. Strong AES encryption and a kill switch. Based in Sweden and maintains a watertight no logging policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Atlas VPN first appeared on the scene in 2019, focusing strongly on accessing streaming services. Since then, the service was acquired by Nord Technologies, which means it is now the sister VPN of our top recommendation for Netflix.

As you might expect, the VPN has a bunch of servers that work to watch Netflix abroad or at work, and it provides outstanding speeds for streaming without interruptions. 

The VPN offers WireGuard connections by default. This makes it an easy option for HD streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Just remember that it doesn't include port forwarding. AtlasVPN reliably unlocks various Netflix catalogs, including Netflix US. It also works to watch Disney Plus, Prime Video, and Hulu.

High-speed servers are available in 44+ countries, which makes it a decent option for bypassing blocks and online censorship. Dedicated apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. They come equipped with malware-filtering capabilities and ad blocking for added protection.

You can trust its solid no logs policy, but we urge you to remember that the kill switch leaks momentarily during reconnection. Pause your torrents or other sensitive activities until the VPN has reconnected. A 30-day money-back guarantee means you can test it yourself. Live chat support is available for members only. 

FAST AND GREAT VALUE: AtlasVPN simplifies Netflix streaming while being budget-friendly. It allows unlimited device connections, perfect for sharing your account with friends and family. Built-in malware filtering and ad blocking for enhanced security. Works with tons of popular streaming services. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Netflix VPN testing methodology

For a deeper understanding of our VPN testing and recommendation process, we invite you to explore our comprehensive VPN review methodology. Our approach encompasses rigorous speed tests, meticulous scrutiny of privacy policies, app leak examinations, and a thorough examination of its encryption implementation. 

Our recommendations are exclusively reserved for the most secure VPNs, ensuring they are not only suitable for safeguarding online privacy but also for protecting against hackers on public WiFi networks. In addition, we assess their effectiveness in accessing Netflix while abroad.

Below, we've outlined some of the main attributes we considered when recommending VPNs for Netflix:

• Strong security: We only recommend VPNs with robust security and privacy features. Our top picks offer robust encryption, modern protocols, well-crafted apps, a functional kill switch, and comprehensive protection against DNS leaks. 
• Privacy protection: These VPNs never compromise your data or maintain records of your IP address. They have a solid no logging policy and our top three recommendations have diskless servers that can be wiped in an emergency.
• Fast connections: With fast WireGuard connections and high-speed servers, our recommended VPNs excel in streaming, gaming, torrenting, and video calls, delivering top-notch performance. They are also optimized for accessing Netflix, no matter where you travel.
• Global server network: These VPNs maintain an extensive global server network, offering a wide choice of IP address options worldwide. They work to access a wide choice of popular streaming platforms.
• Apps for all devices: These VPNs work to stream Netflix on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Firesticks. Those apps can be installed on multiple devices (some even allow unlimited connections!)
• Dependable support: We recommend VPNs that offer excellent customer care. This includes live chat support, email assistance, setup guides, FAQs, and other useful resources to assist you in configuring and using the VPN to watch Netflix or for any other purpose.

Our top three recommendations have diskless servers and a fully audited service. These help to increase the privacy and security of the platform and means that you don't have to take any of its privacy claims on faith alone. Therefore, if you want a subscription with a highly secure and trustworthy VPN, we recommend sticking with our top three options.

How to watch Netflix with a VPN

Using a VPN to watch Netflix on vacation, or at work, is easy as long as you stick to a service from this guide that is compatible. If you are new to the world of VPNs, follow the steps below to get up and running:

1. Choose a Netflix VPN from this guide. We recommend NordVPN because it is the fastest, most reliable Netflix VPN currently available.
2. Click our link to navigate to the VPN’s website. Using our link will get you the VPN with an automatic coupon code applied.
3. Download the VPN software and install it onto your Netflix streaming device.
4. Login to the VPN using your credentials.
5. Connect to a VPN server in the US (or in the country where you want to stream Netflix).
6. Launch Netflix in your browser or using the app.

That’s it! Your Netflix catalog will now appear to be in the region of the VPN server. Remember that cookies previously left in your browser can cause a conflict with your VPN. So, if you have any trouble streaming Netflix, clear your cookies and cache. Alternatively, you can stream using incognito mode whenever you use your VPN.

Global Netflix library count

Where you live in the world can dramatically affect the number of videos (TV shows and movies) that you can watch on Netflix. Netflix is known to have a much bigger catalog in the US and Canada than elsewhere in the world, and some countries have much smaller libraries than others.

To give you an idea of how much the Netflix catalog varies around the globe, we have included a list of titles by country. If you visit a country with a smaller library, you may find that your favorite show is unavailable. If this happens, simply connect to a server back home in the US to regain access to the largest Netflix catalog.

• USA – 5879
• Canada – 5730
• UK – 5673 
• Japan – 5065
• Greece – 4438
• Italy – 3526 
• Norway – 3203
• UAE – 2906
• Turkey – 2812
• Bahamas – 2234

As you can see, the Netflix catalog varies substantially from country to country. Some countries lack many popular TV shows and movies. This can be a huge source of frustration if you are on vacation and want to continue watching a show that you started back home.

The most frustrating thing is that the price of Netflix remains consistent across all regions, despite the fact that the content catalog greatly differs. This disparity seems unfair, making it a compelling reason to consider using a VPN for Netflix. With a VPN, you can ensure uninterrupted access to the platform's full range of shows, regardless of where you go on vacation.

Netflix VPN FAQs

Can I use a free VPN to watch Netflix?

No. Free VPNs typically have a limited selection of servers, which makes it easy for Netflix to identify and block these VPN servers. Consequently, we are unaware of any free VPNs that work to access Netflix. 

It is also worth noting that reputable VPNs only offer a free plan as a way to showcase their service capabilities and provide limited VPN use to people who can't afford a premium account. Consequently, they reserve their Netflix-optimized servers exclusively for their paid plans. Therefore, to enjoy Netflix with a VPN, you will require a premium subscription with one of the VPNs in this guide.

Why has Netflix banned many VPNs?

Netflix is well aware that internet users leverage VPNs to circumvent regional restrictions. Unfortunately for international subscribers and VPN users, Netflix is obligated to demonstrate its commitment to upholding the terms of its licensing agreements.

In order to fulfill these contractual obligations, Netflix employs a range of methods and technologies aimed at identifying and blocking as many VPNs as possible. As a result, it has become increasingly challenging to recommend trustworthy VPNs capable of consistently bypassing Netflix's VPN bans.

Is it legal to use a VPN for Netflix?

Yes. In most countries worldwide, using a VPN for online privacy and security is entirely legal. 

However, it's worth acknowledging that employing a VPN to circumvent geo-blocks goes against Netflix’s terms of service. In theory, Netflix could take action, such as suspending or terminating your account. In practice, such actions are extremely rare.

Netflix values its paying subscribers and aims to retain them. Consequently, the platform invests resources in blocking VPNs rather than punishing its subscribers. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no reported cases of users losing their Netflix accounts or facing legal repercussions for using a VPN to access Netflix.

The information provided in this article should not be construed as legal advice. Always conduct your own research to determine the legality of VPN usage in your jurisdiction.

Should I use a VPN for Netflix?

Ultimately, the decision lies in your hands. However, it's crucial to acknowledge the inherent unfairness of the Netflix VPN ban for several reasons. Using a VPN to access your standard Netflix catalog ought to be a straightforward choice, and it's unfortunate that Netflix hasn't made more efforts to secure content licenses that enable users to access the full range of content they've paid for in their home region.

Furthermore, it's essential to recognize that not everyone turns to a VPN solely to access a different Netflix region. Some individuals, whether at school or work, rely on VPNs to bypass local network restrictions. These local blocks can prevent subscribers from enjoying their Netflix accounts even on their own devices during a lunch break, which underscores their legitimate need to use a VPN to access their Netflix accounts as if they were back at home.

By imposing VPN blocks, Netflix inadvertently hinders its subscribers from accessing the service they've paid for on their terms. This restriction poses a significant issue. Moreover, many individuals turn to VPNs to safeguard themselves while using public WiFi networks, where they would otherwise be susceptible to tracking by local WiFi providers and potential threats from eavesdroppers, hackers, and data thieves.

In blocking VPNs, Netflix potentially jeopardizes users' account data security and restricts paying customers from accessing their accounts with the added layer of protection that a VPN can provide. This limitation hinders people from obtaining online security while enjoying their Netflix accounts on the go.

In which countries will a VPN work to watch Netflix?

As long as you use a recommended VPN service with Netflix-optimized servers, your vacation destination won't matter. The VPN connection should reliably give you access to Netflix-optimized servers in most countries around the world.

However, there are exceptions, notably in countries such as the UAE, China, Iran, and Russia. In these places, ISPs impose strict firewalls that prevent internet users from accessing the web privately and enable constant government surveillance.

Fortunately, some of the VPNs for Netflix featured in this guide incorporate censorship circumvention capabilities, including obfuscation. These features are specifically designed to help users connect in countries like China.

If you plan to visit one or more countries that impose VPN restrictions, we strongly advise selecting a Netflix VPN that offers stealth connections with obfuscation. This ensures you can enjoy Netflix even while visiting countries with strict firewalls.

Can I access the US Netflix catalog overseas?

Yes. The VPNs recommended in this guide all have at least one US server optimized for streaming US Netflix. This will ensure that you can access US Netflix privately and securely while traveling.

Can I access Netflix libraries from countries other than the US?

Yes. Some of the VPNs we have recommended in this guide work to access between 15 and 25 Netflix regions. This means that you should be able to access your home catalog no matter where you go on vacation.

 Some of the most in-demand regional Netflix libraries covered include:

• USA
• Canada
• UK
• Japan
• France
• Germany
• Brazil

Can I watch Netflix at work with a VPN?

Yes. If your employer has imposed restrictions on Netflix, you can use any of the VPNs recommended in this guide to regain access. Employers often block various services, including Netflix, TV networks, YouTube, social media platforms, and game servers, in an effort to maintain employee focus and productivity. This can be quite frustrating, especially when you have some downtime during a lunch break and wish to catch up on your favorite show.

The good news is that a VPN can effectively bypass restrictions set by an employer, school, or any other local WiFi network. Thanks to the encryption provided by the VPN, you will be able to watch Netflix privately. 

However, it's important to exercise caution when bypassing blocks during work hours, as it may lead to consequences. We recommend adhering to workplace rules and using a VPN responsibly, solely for Netflix access on your personal devices and during legitimate downtime.

Can I watch Netflix on a device that doesn't support a VPN app like Chromecast, Apple TV, PlayStation, or Xbox?

Yes, it is possible to watch Netflix on devices that don't have native support for VPN apps. You can still connect to the VPN to access Netflix on devices like Chromecast, smart TVs, Apple TV, PS4, or Xbox. To do so, you will need to either use a VPN router or a virtual VPN-protected hotspot. We have outlined each method below:

• VPN router: If you have a VPN-compatible router, you can easily establish a VPN connection on it. This configuration automatically safeguards all the devices in your home, including any that don't support VPN software natively. Devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, or streaming devices, which typically don't allow direct VPN installation, will be able to access Netflix through the VPN-secured router.
• Virtual hotspots: Many modern Windows and Mac computers have the ability to create virtual hotspots. This feature can be coupled with a VPN connection, enabling you to connect devices such as set-top boxes, smart TVs, gaming consoles, Apple TV, Roku, or other similar devices to the VPN-protected hotspot hosted by your computer. All data traffic from these devices will be routed through the VPN on your computer; giving you access to Netflix.
• Smart DNS: Several VPN services recommended in this guide include a free Smart DNS service. Smart DNS is a useful feature that lets you pretend to be in a different country. Many devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles, let you change the default DNS address configuration. By setting the DNS address to the VPN's Smart DNS service, you can access Netflix. However, please note that a VPN's Smart DNS server is usually configured to grant access to US services only.

Will Netflix cancel my account for using a VPN?

No. Although using a VPN with Netflix is technically a breach of the terms of service, you will not receive an account ban or warning for using a VPN. Netflix does not concentrate on banning subscribers because it wants them to continue paying their bills. This is why Netflix spends its time and effort blocking VPNs rather than subscribers.

Can my Netflix VPN access other streaming services?

Yes. In our tests, the VPNs we recommended were able to access a wide selection of platforms. We recommend that you test the VPN with your streaming subscriptions yourself using their money-back guarantees. They should all work with numerous services, including Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, Peacock, BBC iPlayer, and many others.

Will a VPN cause buffering on Netflix?

Many VPNs have sluggish servers and tunneling protocols that make them unsuitable for streaming Netflix and other VoD services. The VPNs recommended in this guide all offer fast WireGuard connections and servers capable of high speeds. With them, you can watch Netflix without experiencing poor-quality video playback or buffering.