Looking for the best VPN for Netflix? I found it – ExpressVPN!
Finding a safe, reliable VPN for Netflix can be tedious. Luckily for you, I did all the hard work!
Through diligent testing, I discovered not only one but five easy-to-use VPNs that work with this popular streaming site. All these VPNs offer unlimited bandwidth for fast streaming speeds and unblock Netflix at an affordable price!
Continue reading to explore my top picks and discover unique features.
Top 3 VPNs for Netflix
Surfshark bypasses geo-blocks and allows unlimited device connections. So, an entire household can benefit from a quality Netflix VPN without purchasing multiple accounts. It’s also one of the more affordable VPN services on my list.
ExpressVPN’s speedy Lightway protocol makes it the fastest VPN for Netflix. Top this with excellent unblocking features and Smart DNS support, and you have the best VPN to stream Netflix libraries on several devices.
This VPN provider offers a massive server base in several countries, ensuring you can unblock multiple Netflix libraries! It also has dedicated servers optimized for streaming Netflix.
The crux is that you can’t enjoy all Netflix offers without a VPN!
Apart from accessing multiple Netflix libraries, a VPN encrypts your connection to hide your internet activity so that your ISP doesn’t throttle your internet speeds.
This means faster speeds to stream a broader range of quality content in 4K!
Let’s take a closer look at the best VPNs for Netflix.
Ready for Netflix & Chill? My Top VPNs Will Safely Unblock Netflix Libraries Globally!
Are you eager to catch a glimpse of my VPNs that work with Netflix?
Here they are:
- ExpressVPN – Best Overall + Lightning Fast Speeds
- Surfshark – Unlimited Device Connections + Affordable
- CyberGhost – Extensive Server List With Optimized Netflix Servers
- NordVPN – Best Security Features for Private Streaming + Fast Speeds
- PureVPN – Easy-To-Use Apps With Large Optimized US Server List
This list summarizes my choices for streaming Netflix.
But I suggest you read to the end to get a better feel for each option.
So, how about we get to it?
What Are the Best VPNs for Netflix?
In the following reviews, I’ll highlight the unique features of Netflix VPNs that work seamlessly with American Netflix and libraries in other regions.
I’ll also mention noteworthy attributes to help you conceptualize the VPN services offered by each provider.
Here we go!
ExpressVPN - Best Overall + Lightning Fast Speeds
ExpressVPN sets the bar high and is my first choice for two reasons: it offers insurmountable speeds against ISP throttling and has servers in 94 countries.
This combination makes it a powerful tool for watching Netflix successfully anywhere.
I tested this Netflix VPN and saw the results myself, getting access to 30 Rock (a US-only Netflix title) even while in South Africa.
Some may find this result surprising since ExpressVPN only has 24 US servers, which is nothing compared to NordVPN’s 1970+ and CyberGhost’s 1753+.
But this is where the provider places quality before quantity.
Limited as these are, the servers offer excellent unblocking for Netflix!
In fact, the limited servers are built to regularly switch server IPs, making them nearly impossible to detect and block!
Furthermore, ExpressVPN scored first in my speed tests.
So, again, the small server fleet doesn’t concern me.
During my ExpressVPN speed tests, my base download speed only dropped from 9.95 Mbps to 8.74 Mbps. That’s a negligible 12% difference, only slightly competing with NordVPN’s results.
Base speed:
Since you need a minimum of 5 Mbps to stream in HD, my painfully slow connection paired with ExpressVPN was still fast enough to ensure unbuffered Netflix HD streaming.
At this point, I’d like to highlight that I used the ExpressVPN-exclusive, lightweight, and ultra-fast Lightway protocol.
This protocol is also data-friendly, which is worth considering if you’re streaming Netflix over your mobile or router data plans.
Moving on.
ExpressVPN has native apps for various devices, including Android TVs and FireTV. It also syncs beautifully with other Smart TVs and gaming consoles with which you can stream Netflix via MediaStreamer, the provider’s Smart DNS service.
This MediaStreamer comes with your ExpressVPN subscription and allows you to adjust DNS settings to ExpressVPN’s US DNS address(es).
In my opinion, it’s a cut above the rest! The only other VPN that almost compares is Surfshark with its in-app SmartDNS feature, which also unblocks content without hesitation.
Additionally, ExpressVPN offers Roku support through a router set-up.
However, the VPN provider only offers 5 simultaneous device connections. In contrast, Surfshark’s unlimited device support and even PureVPN’s “up to 10” simultaneous connections have the upper hand here.
Price is another sensitive subject since ExpressVPN isn’t the cheapest VPN provider (PureVPN is).
The good news is that I can throw in a discount!
Pros
- Servers in 94 countries
- Unblocks Netflix in multiple locations (including the US, UK, Australia, and France)
- US servers regularly switch IPs to avoid blocks
- Ultra-fast speeds using ExpressVPN-exclusive Lightway protocol
- Supports many different devices, including Smart TVs and gaming consoles
- No-logs policy with private, BVI jurisdiction
Cons
- Only offers five simultaneous connections
- Expensive VPN service
Surfshark – Unlimited Device Connections + Affordable
Surfshark is the only quality Netflix VPN that offers unlimited simultaneous connections and still unblocks US and UK Netflix libraries seamlessly.
The VPN also boasts a massive server fleet, with 3200+ servers across 99 countries. So, finding a fast, unblocking server near you won’t be a problem!
Luckily for us, I connected to one of the New York servers, albeit on a static IP, and got access to stream the series “Shameless” easily:
Besides the kind of static IPs on Surfshark that I used above, there are also 600+ regular US servers to choose from and a selection of 3200+ servers in 99 countries.
If it wasn’t for ExpressVPN’s fast speeds, Surfshark might have been my first choice! But speed is where Surfshark (slightly) disappoints.
My speed test over this VPN generated a download speed of 7.71 Mbps, making Surfshark the slowest on my list.
Thankfully, Surfshark also has a VPN app for most mobile and PC devices, Android TVs and FireTV.
Apple TVs and gaming consoles can also unblock Netflix libraries via Smart DNS settings found in your account profile – or you can connect your router to Surfshark and stream Netflix on all your home/office devices at once.
I already mentioned that you can use one Surfshark account to protect unlimited devices. This makes Surfshark a cost-effective solution if you have several members in your home or office who want to use Netflix VPN services.
In this regard, it’s even more affordable than PureVPN!
Hooray! I have an exclusive discount you can use to save more!
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Unblocks several Netflix libraries
- Native apps for most popular devices
- Smart DNS feature for Apple TVs and gaming consoles
- Affordable VPN for Netflix
Cons
- Not the fastest VPN
CyberGhost - Extensive Server List With Optimized Netflix Servers
CyberGhost has a massive server fleet (the largest on this list) and dedicated streaming servers for watching Netflix.
The VPN provider currently has 8900+ servers spanning 90+ countries, a huge leap from Surfshark’s 3200+ and possibly ExpressVPN’s undisclosed number.
Furthermore, three of its 1300+ US servers are specially optimized for streaming and unblocking Netflix. This may be a few, but CyberGhost didn’t have to extend this favor. So, I’m not complaining!
These optimized servers are also frequently updated with new IP addresses to bypass Netflix blocks. Luckily, the normal servers work well for unblocking Netflix, too! I tested both to be certain!
Here I am streaming Vanilla Sky, a movie not currently available in the South African library.
Regular CyberGhost New York server:
Netflix-optimized CyberGhost Los Angeles server:
Like Surfshark, CyberGhost isn’t as fast as ExpressVPN.
Again, the speeds delivered, recorded at 7.94Mbps during my tests, are fast enough to stream Netflix in HD.
Like my other Netflix VPN picks, CyberGhost supports a broad spectrum of devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TVs, and Amazon FireTV.
You can even enable CyberGhost’s Smart DNS to unblock Netflix on gaming consoles and other Smart TVs that can’t download a native VPN app.
As for simultaneous device coverage, this VPN service allows up to 7 devices on a single account. A far fall from Surfshark’s unlimited generosity – but better than ExpressVPN and NordVPN!
Apart from standard military-grade encryption and DNS leak protection, CyberGhost also offers unique NoSpy servers and Bucharest privacy laws to keep your Netflix shenanigans private.
All this wrapped up in what I think is a fair price!
I’ll throw in a discount to fatten the deal!
Pros
- Massive server fleet in the US and globally
- Dedicated streaming servers for unblocking & watching Netflix
- Unblocks Netflix in the US easily
- Unblocks Netflix libraries in several countries
- Smart DNS compatible
- Caters to several types of devices
Cons
- Not the fastest VPN for Netflix
- Can only connect seven devices to one account
NordVPN - Best Security Features for Private Streaming + Fast Speeds
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPNs, and for a good reason.
The Panama City-based VPN service provider is frantic about security and created several unique features that help to fill safety gaps.
Plus! The privacy measures help mask your IP and location, which in turn helps to unblock Netflix anywhere!
There’s one thing, though.
Popular reputation aside, connecting to Netflix UK wasn’t easy.
It took me a few attempts before I could successfully stream the UK-only title, Cry Baby.
I had to switch from my wireless home connection to my mobile’s data connection, reconnect to a NordVPN UK server, and then hop onto Chrome’s Incognito Mode before I could bypass the VPN block!
It’s the only VPN on my list that gave me hassles. Perhaps I just caught the VPN at a time when Netflix just released new blocks?
Or, maybe browser cache and cookies were interfering with the first unblocking attempt before using Google Chrome’s incognito browsing.
Anyhow, here I’m streaming Cry Baby, proving that after some trial and error, NordVPN does work with Netflix!
While we’re on the bright side, I’d like to highlight NordVPN’s device compatibility.
The VPN service covers several devices and operating systems.
So, you can watch Netflix on your smartphone, PCs, smart TV sets, and gaming consoles with this VPN!
NordVPN makes this possible with native apps for iOS, macOS, Windows, Android TVs, and Linux. For the devices that don’t fall into the above categories, there’s SmartDNS, which can very easily be setup in your app (no need to log in to your web account).
Furthermore, NordVPN is a fast VPN that allows smooth streaming, only second to ExpressVPN in my speed tests.
I got these speeds over NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol, which balances security and speed.
However, it’s not all good news with NordVPN.
For example, it limits simultaneous connections to 6 devices (only one more than ExpressVPN) and caters to fewer countries (59) than the other VPNs I mentioned.
However, the server quantity is large (5500+) and comes in at a close third to CyberGhost and PureVPN. So, you’ll almost always find a decent server to unblock Netflix anywhere.
Pricewise, it’s not the cheapest, but it’s far from being the most expensive either.
Here’s some discount to ease the pressure on your wallet!
Pros
- Large server fleet in the US
- NordLynx protocol for fast speeds
- Can be used to unblock Netflix libraries in most countries
- Smart DNS compatible with in-app settings
- Caters to several types of devices
Cons
- Didn’t unblock easily during my time of testing
- Country reach is much lower than other VPNs
- Can only connect six devices to one account
PureVPN – Easy-To-Use Apps With Large Optimized US Server List
PureVPN is on my list of suggested VPNs for Netflix and other streaming sites because its apps are easy to use. Even VPN noobs can navigate the apps and connect to the best servers to stream Netflix without complications.
It also boasts a large 6500+ global server fleet (almost as large as CyberGhost’s), and a quick visit to the provider’s website shows that several of these servers are based in the US.
Good news for those trying to get their hands on the US’s exclusive Netflix collection!
As always, I like to put my money where my mouth is and test VPNs before I advocate them.
My next step was to unblock Netflix using a New York PureVPN server. Happy to say it worked!
Here, I’m watching “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” that’s available to US Netflix viewers from South Africa:
You can also access other regional Netflix libraries, which is a great help if you’re traveling abroad but want to continue streaming your favorite series available at home!
The next step was my speed test results, which were also impressive.
A download speed of 8.50 Mbps put PureVPN in third place for a fast Netflix connection. I’m connected to a US New York server here, by the way!
So, you’re guaranteed to enjoy HD Netflix streaming without buffering, no matter how far you are from the US server(s).
Additionally, PureVPN has native apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Android Smart TVs, Kodi, and Amazon Fire TVs.
Other Smart TVs, media boxes, and gaming consoles can be connected to PureVPN’s service by configuring the VPN on a supported router.
However, Smart DNS is where PureVPN drops the ball.
There are no in-app settings, and you can’t even use your PureVPN web account to configure devices. The provider “purely” directs you to change DNS settings via a manual set-up process.
As for subscription costs, this no-logs VPN is a winner and offers the most affordable deals on my list!
I’ll even throw in a discount to sweeten the deal!
Pros
- Easy-to-use apps
- Large 6500+ global server fleet with 1800+ servers in the US
- Unblocks Netflix easily
- Decent speeds for streaming Netflix without buffering
- Affordable VPN subscriptions
Cons
- No in-app or web account Smart DNS functionality
Best Netflix VPN Comparison Table
Your head’s probably spinning with all the great Netflix VPN options I’ve thrown your way. Decisions, decisions!
Fret not. I’ve compiled a Netflix VPN comparison table to draw a picture of your options. Hopefully, this will give a better perspective.
VPN Provider | ExpressVPN | Surfshark | CyberGhost | NordVPN | PureVPN |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jurisdiction | BVI | Netherlands | Bucharest | Panama City | BVI/Hong Kong |
Privacy | Audited no-logs | Audited no-logs | Audited no-logs | Audited no-logs | Audited no-logs |
Unique Security Features | TrustedServer technology, Lightway Protocol | CleanWeb, Camouflage Mode | NoSpy Servers | DoubleVPN, Onion Over, NordLynx Protocol | Quantum-resistant servers |
Netflix Unblocking | Unblocks easily | Unblocks easily | Unblocks easily PLUS dedicated streaming servers for Netflix | Unblocked with trial & error | Unblocks easily |
Countries | 94 | 99 | 90+ | 59 | 78+ |
Servers | Undisclosed | 3200+ | 9233 | 5573+ | 6500+ |
US Servers | 25 | 600+ | 1295 | 1970+ | 1800+ |
Download Speed (compared to 9.95 Mbps base speed) | 8.74 Mbps | 7.71 Mbps | 7.94 Mbps | 8.59 Mbps | 8.50 Mbps |
Devices | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, some routers, FireTV | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, FireTV | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Fire TV, Routers | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, FireTV | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, FireTV |
SmartDNS | MediaStreamer | Web settings | Web settings | In-app settings | No |
Simultaneous Connections | 5 | Unlimited | 7 | 6 | 10 |
Price | Expensive (Get the Deal) | Affordable (Get the Deal) | Relatively expensive (Get the Deal) | Relatively expensive (Get the Deal) | Affordable (Get the Deal) |
That’s the gist of it, folks!
You should now clearly understand what the best VPNs for Netflix offer!
How to Use a VPN With Netflix?
All the VPNs I listed are easy to use with Netflix, and for the most part, all you need to do is download your preferred VPN app, connect to a VPN server, and stream away!
But to make life easier, I’ve streamlined the process into steps for each popular device type. See below.
How to Use a VPN With Netflix on a PC?
You’ll need to download a Windows VPN app to use a VPN with Netflix on a PC.
Here’s how:
- Choose your preferred VPN provider from my list of top VPNs for Netflix. I’m still going with ExpressVPN.
- Subscribe to a VPN plan and create an account.
- Download and install the VPN provider’s Windows app to your PC.
- Sign in to your app and connect to a server in the region that holds the Netflix library you want to access.
- You must create a new Netflix account if you’re accessing a foreign Netflix library for the first time.
- Sign in to your Netflix account.
- Once you have paid for your account, you’ll be able to watch Netflix titles exclusive to that region.
How to Use a VPN With Netflix on Mobile Devices?
Watch your favorite Netflix shows on-the-go by using a VPN with Netflix on your mobile devices. Here’s how:
- Choose your preferred VPN provider from my list of top VPNs for Netflix. ExpressVPN remains my go-to for iOS and Android devices.
- Subscribe to a VPN plan and create an account.
- Download the VPN provider’s Android or iOS app to your mobile device.
- Sign in to your app and connect to a server in the region that holds the Netflix library you want to access.
- Go to your mobile’s app store to download and install the Netflix app.
- You must create a new Netflix account if you’re accessing a foreign Netflix library for the first time.
- Once you have paid for your account, you’ll be able to watch Netflix titles exclusive to that region.
How to Use a VPN With Netflix on Android TVs?
All the VPNs on my list of best VPNs for Netflix feature dedicated apps for Android Smart TVs, thus making them super easy to use with Netflix!
Enjoy a VPN-protected Netflix experience on your Android TV with these steps:
- Choose your preferred VPN provider, like ExpressVPN, from my list of top VPNs for Netflix.
- Subscribe to a VPN plan and create an account.
- Download and install the chosen VPN app to your Android TV via Google Play.
- Sign in to your app and connect to a server in the region that holds the Netflix library you want to access.
- Go to the Google Play store and download and install the Netflix app (if it’s not pre-installed on your TV).
- You must create a new Netflix account if you’re accessing a foreign Netflix library for the first time.
- Once you have paid for your account, you’ll be able to watch Netflix titles exclusive to that region.
How to Use a VPN With Smart DNS on Your Smart TV?
Not all Smart TVs are compatible with VPN apps, and knowing how to use Smart DNS on a smart TV can therefore be useful. Here’s what you need to do:
- Purchase a VPN with a quality smart DNS feature. I chose ExpressVPN because it has “MediaStreamer.”
- Purchase a subscription with your chosen VPN provider and register an account.
- Log in to your account and register your IP address.
- Your VPN provider will generate a new IP address (make a note of it).
- Navigate to your smart TV’s “Settings” menu and select “Network.”
- Select Network Status > IP Settings > DNS Setting.
- Manually enter the new IP address your VPN provider generated.
- Press “Enter” on your remote to save settings.
- Restart the TV for the new changes to take effect.
- If your TV connection works, you’ve successfully updated the DNS settings. If your TV isn’t connected, repeat steps 7 and 8, and try again.
Help! How Can I Fix a Netflix Proxy Error?
If you receive a Netflix proxy error, here are a few troubleshooting techniques you can apply:
- Check your connection. Often a proxy error lies in an unstable internet connection. Ensure your connection is stable and that your VPN is constantly connected.
- Switch servers. Netflix may have flagged the server you connected to, so try changing to another one.
- Try a different browser. A quick browser switch may be all your VPN and Netflix needs to run smoothly. If Firefox isn’t working, try Chrome or Microsoft Edge.
- Restart your device and apps. Restart your apps and devices and check to see if any software must be updated while you’re at it.
- Disable IPv6. This troubleshooting technique can be complex and requires you to adjust your device’s network adaptor setting. The steps to disabling IPv6 will vary, depending on your device.
- Contact customer support. If the above proxy error solutions don’t work, I suggest you reach out to your VPN provider’s support team for a tailored solution. All the VPNs I featured offer 24/7 live chat support!
Sometimes trial and error are necessary to access Netflix and watch the streaming service’s best content.
FAQs
Is Using a VPN for Netflix Legal?
Using a VPN for Netflix is legal and won’t get you into trouble.
But while a VPN can mask your privacy and Netflix streaming activities, it’s advised that you only use a VPN for safe, legal practices. For example, streaming copyrighted material is frowned upon in most countries and can even incur penalties.
Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch Netflix?
You can use a free VPN to watch Netflix. However, free VPNs usually lack unblocking features and often fail to mask VPN usage – which means your ISP will see and throttle your connection! Free VPNs also don’t guarantee the best streaming speeds and online security!
Thus, purchase a cheap VPN like Surfshark over choosing a free VPN.
This will provide you with a better VPN service to unblock Netflix libraries globally and enjoy a safe, fast streaming experience.
Can I Watch Netflix in China?
You can’t watch Netflix in China without a VPN, proxy, or Smart DNS technology.
It’s important to know that Netflix currently doesn’t offer any video streaming service in China. But with the aid of a quality unblocking VPN, Chinese Netflix fans can still access Netflix libraries in other regions, including the US.
Signing Out…
Access Netflix from anywhere with one of my best VPNs for Netflix.
Not only will you benefit from unblocking features to get you past those geo-blocks, but you’ll also avoid ISP speed throttling. PLUS, you can save on your Netflix subscription by signing up to Netflix in a region with cheaper deals!
ExpressVPN remains my first choice for Netflix, and you can easily get a discounted plan by clicking this link.
Even so, all the VPNs reviewed are excellent for streaming content globally and will enhance your Netflix experience. So, take your pick!
Not ready to go? Read this detailed ExpressVPN review for more insight.