Netflix is one of the things in the world that don’t need any introduction. It has a giant library of thousands of movies and TV shows. But many of the content is geographically restricted due to copyright agreements.
This simply means one can watch the movies and TV shows available for the country you are living in now. If you want to access those content without leaving your house, then VPN is the best option for you.
But Netflix is very strict about blocking VPN. Our team of expert researchers has tested many VPNs from different locations to test whether they are useful or not.
Based on our test result, I come up with some of the best VPNs for Netflix.
To say frankly, My number one choice is NordVPN for Netflix. With a portfolio of ultra-fast speed, ability to bypass the geo-restriction, and easily unblock Netflix NordVPN is my top recommendations above four others.
Quick answer: Here are the best VPNs for Netflix
Based on all of the latest test results here are the 5 best Netflix VPNs
NordVPN – Best for regular streaming any Netflix library. Fast, secure, and choose from over 5700 servers in 59 countries.
ExpressVPN – Fast, secure, and throttle-free access to Netflix streaming.
Surfshark – Easy to use and budget-friendly, dedicated streaming mode, and allows you to connect unlimited devices simultaneously.
CyberGhost – Unblock streaming services like Netflix with a fast and secure connection.
PrivateVPN – Small but secure server network for unblocking Netflix in 60 countries.
Table of Contents
How Netflix Block content for users?
Throughout the years Netflix has developed a strong tracking system that detects user’s IP addresses. From the IP address, it figure-out which TV shows and movies you can view, and which to block.
This method is called the geoblocking. Not only Netflix but also many other sites use this technique to restrict users from certain content.
To bypass this restriction on Netflix, many people use free VPNs or proxy servers. But this is not an easy task for low-quality VPNs to bypass the geoblocking technique.
If you have ever tried with a free VPN, then you got some error like this.
“Whoops, something went wrong. Streaming error. You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again.”
The Netflix proxy error occurs whenever Netflix’s system detects that a user is trying to access a video through a proxy server or VPN. Netflix started blocking such types of connections from all proxies and VPNs in early 2016 in order to enforce its copyright obligations.
How to bypass the Netflix proxy error?
If you want to access the content of a different country, then you need to have a premium VPN service. Then you can bypass the Netflix proxy error.
Let’s say you are in the US and you want to see the content library of Turkey. Then you need to connect a Turkey server to bypass the restriction and access the library.
Here’s how you can do this.
Sign up for a VPN that can beat Netflix proxy ban. We recommend using NordVPN.
Once you purchase their plan, you can use it in any device like a smartphone, laptop, etc. Install the appropriate app for the device you want to stream Netflix. If you want to stream movies and TV shows in your Windows-based laptop, then download and install the NordVPN for Windows.
Once you successfully installed, then run the VPN app.
Select the server location for the Netflix library you want to unblock. For example, if you want to watch the Turkey Netflix series then choose a server location in Turkey.
After choosing the server location, hit the Connect button. Give it a few seconds to establish a connection.
Then go to Netflix and try to access the content. If you VPN working fine, then you can able to stream without the proxy error.
If you’re still getting the same proxy error, then try to connect a different server. Clear your web browser’s cookies and cache.
You can contact your VPN service provider to resolve this issue. They will help choose the correct settings and servers for Netflix.
If you use NordVPN then you won’t face any issue. You can easily access all the content present in the Netflix library.
Best VPNs for Netflix
We analyzed over 120 VPN services during our research to find out VPNs that work with Netflix.
Here are my top 4 recommended VPNs for Netflix.
1 – NordVPN
NordVPN is my top choice for streaming Netflix. Not just Netflix, I also use this for various activities like torrenting. It is considered the world’s best VPN and won many awards.
It has 5,800+ servers located in 59 countries. The SmartPlay DNS feature allows you to unblock international Netflix libraries and 140 other geo-blocked streaming services.
NordVPN’s uses SmartPlay technology that automatically combines Smart DNS with VPN security. So it quickly penetrates Netflix’s geo-restrictions. Their servers have the highest level of security and have rich resources.
NordVPN uses 256-bit military-grade encryption to keep your data private. This is the highest level of encryption most secure you can get.
On our speed test results, we got the best speed and that is enough for streaming HD and 4K content.
It offers no throttling and unlimited bandwidth. No matter when, where, or how long you stream, you would never experience lag or buffering. During our test, we also stream Ultra HD videos and never experienced any speed decline.
All the plans of NordVPN come with a no-questions-asked 30-day money-back guarantee. This helps you to test their service and stream Netflix.
● 5,800+ servers in 59 countries
● Provides 256-bit military-grade encryption
● Ultra-fast connection with unlimited data
● Strict no-logs policy
● SmartPlay feature for streaming content
● Block malware and ads automatically
● Works with: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Sky TV, Disney+, Fox, Hulu and much more
● Compatible with: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, Linux, Chrome, and Firefox. It’s also compatible with routers
● No-questions-asked 30-day money-back guarantee
2 – ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another popular VPN service provider known for the fast, streaming-optimized, and super-secure servers. This is also one of my top choices for streaming geo-restricted videos on Netflix.
They have fine-tuned servers capable of providing consistent streaming no matter how long you continue.
ExpressVPN has 3,000+ servers located in 94 countries. It allows you to unblock international Netflix libraries, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and many other geo-blocked streaming services.
During our research, we also tested their uploading and downloading speed. We found that it provides a lightning-fast connection.
ExpressVPN has its built-in speed tester. You can run it before connecting to any servers to see the speed. It provides unlimited data no matter how long you stream content on Netflix.
All the plans of ExpressVPN come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. So you can try their service without any hustle.
● 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
● High-end security features
● Streaming-optimized servers
● Unlimited data
● A built-in speed tester
● Five simultaneous connections
● Strict no-logs policy
● Easy-to-use apps
● Works with: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, Fox, Sky TV, etc
● Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, Apple TV, Chrome
● 30-day money-back guarantee
3 – Surfshark
Surfshark is another affordable VPN service provider helpful for streaming Netflix cataloes of a different country.
It is famous for the NoBorders mode that allows you to access blocked websites. In addition to that, they also protect your privacy completely.
Surfshark has 1,700+ servers located in 63 countries. It allows you to unblock international Netflix libraries, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and many other geo-blocked streaming services.
Another most important feature is the Camouflage Mode. It makes sure that no one even your internet service provider can’t tell that you’re using a VPN.
We tried their service from various locations and found that it is capable of penetrating the Netflix geo-block filter. During our research, we also tested their speed. It is lightning fast and consistently provides a stable connection.
They also provide unlimited data, bandwidth, and multiple simultaneous connections make it a great choice for streamers.
You can instantly sign up for their service without any hustle because it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
● 1,700+ servers in 63 countries
● High-end security features
● Unblocks Netflix US, FR, UK, CA, IT, and more
● Unlimited data, bandwidth for movies, and TV show marathons.
● Multiple simultaneous connections
● Strict no-logs policy
● NoBorders mode to unblock streaming sites
● Works with: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, Fox, Sky TV, etc
● Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, Apple TV, Chrome and routers
● 30-day money-back guarantee
4 – CyberGhost
CyberGhost is another popular VPN service provider having millions of happy customers. It is easy to set up and have specialized servers for effortless streaming.
As per CyberGhost’s official website, they have a vast network of 6,400 servers located in 90 countries. We have also tested many of their servers and found that they are bypassing the geo-restrictions of Netflix.
For speed testing purposes, we also tested their network of servers and found that they are streaming-optimized. It provides reliable and consistent speed so that you would never face a buffering issue.
During our test, I connected to a CyberGhost’s server and watched many episodes of The Crown on Netflix. I consistently watched around 3 hours but never face any buffering.
CyberGhost allows up to seven simultaneous connections with your subscription.
All the plans of CyberGhost come with a 45-day money-back guarantee. So you can try their service without any hustle.
● 6,400+ servers in 90 countries
● High-end security features
● Can unblock Netflix libraries
● Unlimited data, bandwidth for movies, and TV show marathons.
● Multiple simultaneous connections
● Works with: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, Fox, Sky TV, etc
● Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, Apple TV, Chrome and routers
● 45-day money-back guarantee
Our Research Methodology
To check which VPNs are capable of unblocking Netflix, we analyzed more than 120 top VPNs.
During our research we tested:
A large number of servers located in different countries. To be sure we connect from different servers located in different countries. We tried to access different Netflix libraries to form various countries.
We also test the speed that is most important for streaming. For the speed test, our expert researchers analyzed the maximum and minimum speed by connecting different servers. They also run marathon tests by streaming movies and TV shows for hours.
In addition to the speed, we also checked unlimited data and bandwidth so you can stream in high-definition, without buffering.
Easy to use a user-friendly interface and easy to set up is also our top priority. The VPNs we have selected have very easy setup guides and some also provide one-click setup so that you can start using it right away.
We also take care of the data privacy and the encryption technology used in their servers.
Customer support is also a vital aspect of a VPN. We also contact their support staff through email, live chat, etc. During that period, we asked them various questions regarding their service. We also asked them whether they are capable of unblocking Netflix. Although our team has tested manually, we want a green signal from them as well.
No-log policy is another most important thing to check in a VPN service. This policy ensures that your VPN service provider is not keeping the log of your browsing history.
We also checked their money-back guarantee policy. During our discussion with their customer support team, we also asked them about this policy. The VPN service providers we choose in our top list have at least a 30-day money-back guarantee.
VPNs That Don’t Work With Netflix
During our research, our team found that most of the popular VPNs can’t unblock Netflix.
Never use a Free VPN. We also analyzed hundreds of free VPNs and the results are shocking.
Currently, there is no free VPN service that can unblock Netflix.
Here is a list of VPNs you should avoid.
| Provider | Reason |
| Buffered | Stopped working September 2017 |
| Private Tunnel | Never worked with Netflix |
| Blockless | Stopped working July 2016 |
| Betternet | An untrustworthy service |
| Avast Secureline | Never worked with Netflix |
| CactusVPN | Stopped working July 2016 |
| Kaspersky Secure Connection | Never worked with Netflix |
| F-Secure VPN | Stopped working |
| GetFlix | Stopped working |
| TunnelBear | Never worked with Netflix |
| HideIPVPN | Stopped working July 2016 |
| SuperVPN | An untrustworthy service |
| Hola | An untrustworthy service |
| IronSocket | Stopped working July 2016 |
| VPN.ac | Never worked with Netflix |
| IPVanish | Stopped working January 2017 |
| Overplay | Stopped working July 2016 |
| VPN Master | An untrustworthy service |
| Hoxx VPN | An untrustworthy service |
| Tunnelbear | Never worked with Netflix |
FAQs
Can Netflix detect a VPN?
Yes, Netflix can detect a VPN. They have a strong tracking system that detects the user’s IP address. The company has a huge database of VPN IP address. If your IP address matches one on the list, you’ll be blocked. Our recommended VPNs can’t be blocked by Netflix.
Why does Netflix block VPN users?
Many of the content is geographically restricted due to copyright agreements. Netflix blocks VPN users so that they can’t access the geo-blocked library.
Why does Netflix have different libraries in different countries?
Netflix is bound to obey the copyright and licensing terms set forth by content producers. If it got permission to broadcast a TV show or a movie in a particular country then it should follow the rule. If Netflix wants to show that same program elsewhere in the world, it needs to obtain separate streaming rights, from the content produces.
Is it Legal to Use a VPN with Netflix?
It is completely legal to use a VPN with Netflix. There is no law to date preventing Netflix users from using a VPN to access different international catalogs. So no risk watching Netflix geo-blocked content with a premium VPN.
Can I use a free VPN for Netflix?
No, there is no free VPN service that can unblock Netflix. In addition to that stay away from free VPNs as it sells your data, embed with third-party trackers and malware. Always prefer to use premium VPNs like NordVPN.
How much speed do I need to stream Netflix?
Download speeds may differ when connected to a VPN and can result in different Netflix video qualities.
Here are Netflix’s speed recommendations:
- 500 kbps: Minimum quality
- 1,500 kbps: Normal quality (less than 480p)
- 3,000 kbps: SD quality (480p or better)
- 5,000 kbps: HD quality (720p or better)
- 25,000 kbps: Ultra HD quality (1080p or better)
How do I change my Netflix region?
It is very simple to change the Netflix region. Open your VPN app and choose the server location that you want to the Netflix library. Suppose you want to access the UK library, then select the UK server.
Do VPN browser extensions work with Netflix?
Yes, some VPNs have extensions for Chrome and Firefox. You can turn on the VPN directly from the browser and choose a server location.
Can I unblock Netflix content through the app and web browser?
When you access Netflix through the website, it checks some information like your IP address and location. VPNs that unblock Netflix in a web browser sends the same information as Netflix is looking for. When Netflix match info, it allows you access to its content.
When you access content from the Netflix app, it also wants the same information as your IP address and location. The VPNs we have recommended above, have special features to provides the same location information matching to the Netflix library you want to watch. When Netflix match info, it allows you access to its content.
Can I Watch Netflix Abroad?
Yes, you can watch Netflix abroad. Netflix has a huge library of content that you can access with a VPN.
Whether you’re on holiday and living in a different country or now living somewhere else in the world, you can enjoy thousands of movies and TV shows on Netflix through a VPN.
What countries will these VPNs work in?
These VPNs can work in many countries around the world. NordVPN and ExpressVPN, even work in countries where the internet is heavily censored by the government, such as China, South Koria, Rusia, and Iran.
Conclusion
With a premium VPN, you can easily bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions and watch any content available on the platform. On the flip side without a VPN, you can only access a fraction of Netflix’s movies and TV shows available for your country.
As you have seen earlier, most VPNs can’t unblock Netflix. I have recommended four VPNs that can bypass the geo-restriction and allows you to stream content. My top pick is NordVPN for its lightning-fast speed, high-end security features, worldwide server coverage, and special features designed for streaming.