Looking for the best VPN for Netflix? I found it – NordVPN!
It streamed the UK-only title Cry Baby for me from South Africa, held 8.59 Mbps of my 9.95 Mbps line over NordLynx (plenty for HD, with room to spare), and its native TV apps plus SmartDNS bring Netflix to smart TVs and consoles, even ones that can’t run a VPN app.
If NordVPN isn’t for you, Surfshark covers unlimited devices for less, ExpressVPN posted the fastest speed in my tests, CyberGhost brings Netflix-optimized servers, and PureVPN is the cheapest of the five.
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
Best for household Netflix access
- Unlimited device connections
- Unblocks US and UK Netflix
- Cheapest per device
NordVPN
Best for Netflix streaming
- 8.59 Mbps over NordLynx
- SmartDNS for TVs and consoles
- 7,000+ servers in 150 countries
ExpressVPN
Best for raw speed
- 8.74 Mbps over Lightway
- Unblocks US, UK, AU, and JP
- MediaStreamer Smart DNS
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:
- NordVPN – Best Overall for Unblocking Netflix Libraries
- Surfshark – Unlimited Device Connections + Affordable
- ExpressVPN – Lightning Fast Speeds + MediaStreamer Smart DNS
- CyberGhost – Extensive Server List With Optimized Netflix Servers
- 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!
NordVPN - Best Overall for Unblocking Netflix Libraries
NordVPN takes the top spot on this list, and it earned it in my tests rather than on reputation: it streamed the UK-only title Cry Baby for me from South Africa, finished 0.15 Mbps behind the fastest VPN I tested, and covers every screen in the house through native apps and SmartDNS.
Let me start with unblocking, because that’s where I gave it the hardest time.
My first attempt at Cry Baby hit Netflix’s proxy error. Netflix keeps a note of your last location in your browser’s cookies, so I reconnected to a NordVPN UK server and reopened Netflix in Chrome’s Incognito Mode (I’d also hopped from home Wi-Fi to mobile data along the way). That did it:
A fresh browser session is the same trick I’d recommend with any VPN, and it’s the only nudge NordVPN needed. With 2,500+ US servers alone and 7,000+ servers across 150 countries, it also has a deep pool of IP addresses to rotate through, so if Netflix ever flags one, the next is a click away.
Speed is the other half of a good Netflix VPN, and NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol delivered. My download speed went from 9.95 Mbps to 8.59 Mbps, a 14% drop that landed just 0.15 Mbps behind ExpressVPN’s winning result and ahead of everything else on this list.
Since HD needs 5 Mbps, that’s comfortable even on my painfully slow connection, and on a normal home line NordLynx leaves plenty of headroom for 4K.
Then there’s device compatibility, which is where NordVPN quietly pulls ahead.
The VPN service covers several devices and operating systems, with native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV. So, you can watch Netflix on your smartphone, PCs, and most smart TV sets with the full VPN treatment.
For the smart TVs and gaming consoles that can’t run an app, every plan includes SmartDNS: activate it in your Nord Account, enter two DNS addresses on the TV, and US Netflix Originals show up on the big screen. I walk through the exact settings in my NordVPN SmartDNS guide.
The Panama City-based provider is also famously thorough about privacy, with Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Threat Protection, and an audited no-logs policy. None of that makes Netflix play better by itself, but it does mean your ISP can’t see what you’re streaming, which is exactly how you sidestep the throttling I mentioned earlier.
You can connect ten devices at once, level with ExpressVPN and PureVPN, though Surfshark’s unlimited allowance still wins that round outright.
Pricewise, it’s not the cheapest: its long-term plans start at about the same price as ExpressVPN’s.
US dollars · checked Oct 1
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
Here’s some discount to ease the pressure on your wallet!
Pros
- Streamed UK-only Netflix for me from South Africa
- 2,500+ US servers and 7,000+ servers in 150 countries for fresh IP addresses
- 8.59 Mbps over NordLynx, 0.15 Mbps behind the fastest VPN I tested
- SmartDNS included with every plan for smart TVs and gaming consoles
- Native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, and Apple TV
- Double VPN, Threat Protection, and an audited no-logs policy for private streaming
Cons
- My first UK attempt needed a fresh browser session to clear a proxy error
- Not the cheapest VPN on this list
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 4,500+ servers across 100 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 4,500+ servers in 100 countries.
Speed is the one place Surfshark (slightly) disappoints, and it’s the sole reason NordVPN finishes above it.
My speed test over this VPN generated a download speed of 7.71 Mbps, making Surfshark the slowest on my list – still plenty for HD, but almost a full megabit behind NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
Thankfully, Surfshark also has a VPN app for most mobile and PC devices, Android TVs and FireTV, plus an Apple TV app for models on tvOS 17 or later.
Gaming consoles take more work. Surfshark ended its SmartDNS service in February 2026, so a PlayStation or Xbox now needs Surfshark on your router (which covers every home/office device at once) or a connection shared from a Windows PC (switch the app to OpenVPN first if you share it as a Wi-Fi hotspot). For a TV without an app, the Smart DNS steps below use NordVPN’s, which covers US Netflix Originals.
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!
US dollars · checked Oct 13
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
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
- Apple TV app, plus router setup for consoles
- Affordable VPN for Netflix
Cons
- Slowest of the five in my speed test (7.71 Mbps)
ExpressVPN - Lightning Fast Speeds + MediaStreamer Smart DNS
ExpressVPN was the fastest VPN in my Netflix tests, and it pairs those insurmountable speeds against ISP throttling with servers in 113 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.
ExpressVPN doesn’t publish how many US servers it runs (it lists locations in all 50 states), so I can’t compare it with NordVPN’s 2,500+ US servers and CyberGhost’s 1,600+ on numbers.
What I can vouch for is quality.
Its servers offer excellent unblocking for Netflix!
In fact, its US 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, narrowly ahead of NordVPN’s 8.59 Mbps.
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 works with other Smart TVs and gaming consoles through MediaStreamer, the provider’s Smart DNS service, though that can’t change your location, so it won’t unlock another country’s Netflix library.
This MediaStreamer comes with your ExpressVPN subscription, but ExpressVPN itself says you can’t change locations with it, so for US titles on those devices you’ll need the VPN on a router instead.
It’s a slick system, though NordVPN now bundles SmartDNS of its own, so it’s no longer the differentiator it once was.
Additionally, ExpressVPN offers Roku support through a router set-up.
ExpressVPN’s Basic plan now covers ten simultaneous connections, level with NordVPN and PureVPN, though Surfshark’s unlimited device support still has the upper hand for a full household.
Value is the sensitive subject, and it’s the reason ExpressVPN doesn’t crack my top two. It isn’t the cheapest VPN on this list, and for about the same price as NordVPN, you get 0.15 Mbps more speed and a much smaller server network. If raw speed is all you care about, it still gets the nod; if you want the best all-rounder, NordVPN gets you nearly there with a much bigger network.
US dollars · checked Oct 13
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
The good news is that I can throw in a discount!
Pros
- Servers in 113 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
- Ten simultaneous connections, where Surfshark offers unlimited
- Pricier than budget picks like Surfshark and PureVPN
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 9,000+ servers spanning 100 countries, a touch ahead of NordVPN’s 7,000+ and a huge leap from Surfshark’s 4,500+ and possibly ExpressVPN’s undisclosed number.
Furthermore, three of its 1,600+ 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 or NordVPN.
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.
CyberGhost still has a Smart DNS feature, but its help center now says it’s no longer compatible with streaming services, so gaming consoles and other Smart TVs that can’t download a native VPN app need CyberGhost on a router instead.
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, and three fewer than NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PureVPN.
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!
US dollars · checked Oct 13
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
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
- Router setup for consoles and Smart TVs
- Caters to several types of devices
Cons
- Not the fastest VPN for Netflix
- Can only connect seven 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 6,000+ global server fleet, 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!
US dollars · checked Oct 13
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
I’ll even throw in a discount to sweeten the deal!
Pros
- Easy-to-use apps
- Large 6,000+ 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 | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PureVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Panama City | Netherlands | BVI | Bucharest | BVI/Hong Kong |
| Privacy | Audited no-logs | Audited no-logs | Audited no-logs | Audited no-logs | Audited no-logs |
| Unique Security Features | DoubleVPN, Onion Over, NordLynx Protocol | CleanWeb, Camouflage Mode | TrustedServer technology, Lightway Protocol | NoSpy Servers | Quantum-resistant servers |
| Netflix Unblocking | Unblocks easily (one retry on UK in my test) | Unblocks easily | Unblocks easily | Unblocks easily PLUS dedicated streaming servers for Netflix | Unblocks easily |
| Countries | 150 | 100 | 113 | 100 | 65+ |
| Servers | 7,000+ | 4500+ | Undisclosed | 9233 | 6,000+ |
| US Servers | 2500+ | 600+ | Undisclosed (all 50 states) | 1600+ | 1800+ |
| Download Speed (compared to 9.95 Mbps base speed) | 8.59 Mbps | 7.71 Mbps | 8.74 Mbps | 7.94 Mbps | 8.50 Mbps |
| Devices | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, FireTV, Android TV, Apple TV | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, FireTV | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, some routers, FireTV | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Fire TV, Routers | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, FireTV |
| SmartDNS | Included (Nord Account settings) | No | MediaStreamer (can’t change location) | Not for streaming | No |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | 10 | 7 | 10 |
| Price | Mid-range (Get the Deal) | Affordable (Get the Deal) | Mid-range (Get the Deal) | Affordable (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 NordVPN.
- 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.
Enjoy HD streaming Netflix on an encrypted, private connection!
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. NordVPN 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.
Watch British, Australian, European, and American Netflix from anywhere in the world!
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 NordVPN, 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.
Watch UK Netflix and several other censored libraries globally with the help of a reliable VPN!
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 NordVPN because SmartDNS is included with every plan.
- Purchase a subscription with your chosen VPN provider and register an account.
- Log in to your Nord Account, open NordVPN under Services, and click Activate in the SmartDNS section to register your IP address.
- Your VPN provider will show you its DNS addresses (for NordVPN, 103.86.99.103 and 103.86.96.103). Make a note of them.
- Navigate to your smart TV’s “Settings” menu and select “Network.”
- Select Network Status > IP Settings > DNS Setting.
- Manually enter the DNS addresses your VPN provider gave you.
- 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.
This process should unblock US Netflix Originals, but remember, it doesn’t provide the same security as a VPN!
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!
NordVPN 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 NordVPN review for more insight.
