Netflix regularly cracks down on customers using VPNs to access its content. A service that works today could be blocked tomorrow, and when the VPN provider reacts, it could be unblocked again in a week. It’s a frustrating experience as a user, so we update this list frequently to give you the best chance at success. Some VPNs have proven more reliable at thwarting Netflix’s detection attempts, and we have included those options below. Read on for our top picks, followed by an explanation of how we came to these conclusions and why Netflix blocks VPNs.
Overview
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![Proton VPN]()
Best OverallProton VPN
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![NordVPN]()
Best Premium FeaturesNordVPN
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![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for All-in-One SecuritySurfshark VPN
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for NewbiesTunnelBear VPN
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![CyberGhost VPN]()
Best for Task-Specific ServersCyberGhost VPN
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![Windscribe VPN]()
Best Company TransparencyWindscribe VPN
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![Hide.me VPN]()
Best for Free ExtrasHide.me VPN
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Proton
![Proton VPN]()
Best OverallProton VPN
Pros & Cons
Proton VPN unblocked Netflix in all our test regions. It also has an excellent combination of powerful features and affordability, making it the best free VPN service we've reviewed. Finally, it features servers optimized for an enhanced video streaming experience.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Proton has a generous set of features at an affordable monthly price. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with a single subscription, and Proton’s built-in ad and tracker blocker works well at reducing ad clutter on text-based sites. Proton has servers tailored for streaming, peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic, TOR access, and multi-hop SecureCore connections. You can try Proton for free with its free plan, which gives you eight servers to choose from and no data limits, but know that Netflix will likely be blocked on free servers.
Privacy and security: Proton takes privacy seriously with a steadfast commitment to transparency and accountability that you don’t often see in the VPN space. All of Proton’s apps are open-source, so you never have to question if there’s a hidden vulnerability that could compromise your data. Further, annual audits and frequent transparency reports show that Proton is maintaining its standards year after year.
Speed and performance: Proton’s premium servers place the service in the middle of the pack, with a 20.11% decrease in download speeds, a 43.21% decrease in upload speeds, and a 351.26% increase in latency.
Streaming: We had no issues streaming Netflix with Proton. Proton’s premium servers worked flawlessly, granting us access to every regional catalog we tested.
User experience and ease of use: Despite being an affordable VPN, Proton’s apps feel anything but cheap. The VPN app is streamlined and easy to use for beginners and experienced users alike. Features are easily accessible and clearly labeled on both desktop and mobile interfaces. It’s easy to tell when you’re connected to a server, and you can access advanced options with just a couple of clicks.
Who It's For
Users who want a free VPN: Proton’s free version is robust and packs in many features that competing free options lack. It’s an excellent tool for securing your privacy on a budget. If you can deal with the limitations, Proton’s free version is more than viable as your main VPN.
Privacy-conscious: Proton’s unwavering commitment to transparency and privacy makes it one of the best options for the privacy-conscious. With open-source apps and regular audits, you can keep tabs on exactly how the company is responding to threats to user data.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit US, Netherlands, Japan Free Version Data Limit Unlimited Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit 1 Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 129 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Proton VPN Review -
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Credit: NordVPN
![NordVPN]()
Best Premium FeaturesNordVPN
Pros & Cons
While expensive, NordVPN offers a comprehensive collection of privacy tools and a vast network of servers worldwide. It also has streaming-specific servers, which enabled full Netflix access in every region I tested. Its excellent performance in our latest speed tests earned it a PCMag Lab Award for the fastest VPN.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: NordVPN is packed with advanced features that work on any platform. NordLynx secures every connection and is a fast, open-source, and reliable protocol. Nord also comes with multi-hop and split-tunneling features. Additionally, Nord’s Threat Protection Pro antivirus keeps you safe from malware and blocks nasty trackers that could try to keep tabs on your browsing habits.
Privacy and security: Nord maintains transparent privacy standards with third-party audits and a frequently updated transparency report. NordLynx uses open-source technology, so you can take a look at what makes the service tick. Nord doesn’t keep logs, and its no-logs policy has been independently verified in multiple security audits by VerSprite, Cure53, Deloitte, and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC).
Speed and performance: Nord has consistently delivered excellent performance in our tests. In our latest bout of testing, NordVPN earned a PCMag Lab Award for fastest VPN. It reduced our download speeds by just 5.20%, upload speeds by 5.78%, and increased our latency by 58.14%. Just keep in mind that your experience may vary depending on your proximity to a Nord server.
Streaming: Streaming with Nord was streamlined. We didn’t experience any buffering or stuttering with videos. Additionally, Nord managed to unblock every regional Netflix library we tested.
User experience and ease of use: Nord has a great mobile experience with streamlined, easy-to-use apps. Desktop is a bit more advanced with detailed menus and tabs for various advanced options.
Who It's For
Worldwide Netflix watchers: If you're looking to unblock Netflix worldwide and don't mind paying a little extra for a VPN packed with features, NordVPN is your best option. You can use a static IP address, enable split tunneling, try a multi-hop connection, get extra protection with a kill switch, and choose from thousands of server locations globally.
Experienced users who need premium security: Experienced VPN users will get the most out of a NordVPN subscription. Features like the company's unique Meshnet offering are interesting and expansive, but they may be confusing to anyone unfamiliar with VPN use.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 118 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 6 Supported Protocols on Android NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec Supported Protocols on macOS NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 Learn More NordVPN Review -
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Credit: Surfshark
![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for All-in-One SecuritySurfshark VPN
Pros & Cons
Surfshark VPN is expensive, but it offers reliable Netflix streaming on unlimited devices. Everyone in the same household can watch their favorite shows without having to connect and disconnect to make space.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Surfshark's network has strong global coverage, with presence in 100 countries, making it a good pick for accessing regional content. Advanced connection options, such as multi-hop and post-quantum encryption, make it easy to tailor your security preferences. Surfshark aims to be a one-app security solution. You can configure an antivirus, ad blocker, and additional identity protection tools all in one place.
Privacy and security: Privacy policies can be confusing and dense. Surfshark takes a better approach, offering an in-depth yet digestible policy that explains how the company handles data. The service has verified these claims with frequent third-party audits and quarterly transparency reports.
Speed and performance: Surfshark's performance was impressive. We only saw a 7.73% decrease in download speeds, a 7.12% decrease in upload speeds, and an 201.34% increase in latency.
Streaming: Netflix access was no problem for Surfshark. It accessed every regional catalog we tested without running into blocks. We did not experience stuttering or slow load times even when connected to distant locations.
User experience and ease of use: User experience is consistent between applications. Each version of Surfshark has a sleek design with clearly described features. It's easy to pick up and use as a new user, and it has enough depth for more experienced users to tinker with.
Who It's For
Media streamers: Surfshark is a solid choice for those looking to watch their favorite shows from anywhere without compromising on security. The VPN was one of the fastest we have tested, and it unblocked regional Netflix catalogs with ease.
Users who want a one-app solution: The most significant selling point for Surfshark is its extensive privacy features. It's a good choice for those who may not want a handful of subscriptions to different services. With Surfshark, you can configure an array of tools all from a single control hub under one account.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 100 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Surfshark VPN Review -
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for NewbiesTunnelBear VPN
Pros & Cons
TunnelBear VPN is a simple, powerful Canadian-based VPN service that doesn't cut corners on privacy—it has released annual audits for years and has one of the best privacy policies in the industry. TunnelBear VPN also offers a free subscription, though you will be limited to 2GB of data per month.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries and doesn’t place a cap on simultaneous device connections. You get advanced obfuscation with GhostBear, a protocol that mimics HTTPS to bypass common VPN blocks. TunnelBear also has a free version that lets you try out all the app's features if you’re not sure it's the right pick for you. You aren’t limited to a slim selection of servers or barred from using advanced features or protocols. However, you are limited to 2GB of data per month.
Privacy and security: TunnelBear’s privacy policy is thoughtfully designed and easy to read. Every point is illustrated with a real-world example of how TunnelBear handles that specific instance, inquiry, or data point. TunnelBear has undergone seven separate independent audits that have verified the company’s stalwart stance on privacy. Regularly updated transparency reports hammer home this point, showing that the service has never handed over user information in response to an inquiry or lawful order.
Speed and performance: TunnelBear performed below average in our most recent bout of speed tests. It decreased our download speeds by 83% and our upload speeds by 72%. Latency also saw a significant 109% increase. Keep in mind that speed tests vary based on a variety of local factors, so we don’t recommend buying a VPN based on speed tests alone.
Streaming: TunnelBear streaming was reliable. The VPN unblocked Netflix in all tested regions without fail. TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries, providing broad global coverage. While it may not have the most comprehensive server network, it services the most popular countries that offer regional streaming catalogs.
User experience and ease of use: One of TunnelBear’s standout features is its intuitive, fun design. The fun, brightly colored interface is easy to use and features bears at every turn. It’s not too cluttered. It’s not too sparse. This interface is just right. A map makes it easy to tell where you’re connecting to, and you’ll get a cute animation of a bear tunneling to the region that you choose to connect to. Advanced features and additional configuration options are just a couple of clicks away.
Who It's For
First-time VPN users: TunnelBear VPN is very straightforward. Its whimsical design makes it easy for first-time VPN users to approach. Its free version also lets you try it without risk and ensure it will work exactly for what you need. With no restrictions on the number of simultaneous connections, TunnelBear is a good choice for families or anyone with numerous devices.
Users who want a free VPN: The full TunnelBear app is free as long as you stay under the 2GB per month cap. It’s a great way to try the premium service before subscribing to a plan. You can try it out for free without entering any payment information or personal details.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Are All Features Available In Free Version? Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit All Servers Free Version Data Limit 2GB per month Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit Unlimited Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 45 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN Learn More TunnelBear VPN Review -
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Credit: CyberGhost
![CyberGhost VPN]()
Best for Task-Specific ServersCyberGhost VPN
Pros & Cons
CyberGhost has a massive network of over 11,500 servers. Its task-specific servers make it an excellent choice for streaming, with special configuration options for the most popular streaming services.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: CyberGhost’s streaming-specific servers are explicitly meant for accessing regional content from various streaming services. A vast network of over 11,500 servers across 100 countries makes CyberGhost an excellent pick for accessing country-specific content. It also had solid performance scores, making it a good choice for reliable video streaming.
Privacy and security: CyberGhost’s service is backed by a comprehensive, easy-to-read privacy policy that clearly states the company does not retain, sell, or trade user data. The VPN releases quarterly transparency reports and is regularly audited by privacy firms such as Deloitte.
Speed and performance: CyberGhost performed well in our latest round of speed tests. We saw a 8.73% reduction in download speeds, a 4.41% decrease in upload speeds, and a 92.06% increase in latency. We found it to be plenty fast enough for quality video streaming.
Streaming: We pitted CyberGhost against five regional Netflix catalogs: The US, UK, Australia, Japan, and Canada. It was able to access each region’s specific content catalog without running into blocks or restrictions.
User experience and ease of use: All of CyberGhost’s apps are organized and easy to use. You can quickly find the streaming servers on the left-hand sidebar. It’s always clear when you’re connected thanks to a large power button icon on the right side of the dashboard. Each server shows the current user load, so you can easily find fast streaming servers in your area.
Who It's For
Task-specific users: CyberGhost is for users who want dedicated server options for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. The VPN's advanced NoSpy servers make it an excellent choice for those who need uncompromising privacy.
Mobile users: CyberGhost’s mobile apps are simple and straightforward, with full access to advanced features. It's easy to take your content on the go thanks to seven supported simultaneous device connections.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 90 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 7 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More CyberGhost VPN Review -
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Credit: Windscribe
![Windscribe VPN]()
Best Company TransparencyWindscribe VPN
Pros & Cons
Windscribe offers both 10Gbps and standard streaming servers in many regions worldwide, including those we benchmarked for this list. Windscribe is one of the few VPNs we tested to get an Open Library in all five tests. Add to that a stellar privacy policy and an outspoken owner who advocates for VPN users' rights, and it's a winning combo for all your late-night Netflix binges.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T. (Remote Omnidirectional Badware Eliminating Robotic Tool) is excellent at blocking ads and trackers on less-than-trustworthy sites. You can also use advanced features such as split tunneling. If you’re unsure if the VPN is the right pick for you, then you can try it out for free. With the free plan, you get 10GB of browsing data per month if you confirm your email address, or 2GB if you don't. Free customers can also access servers in 10 countries, including Canada and Switzerland.
Privacy and security: Windscribe doesn't log your data. Its fast and anonymous signup process allows you to use the VPN app without giving up a lot of data about yourself. Next, you can pay for the app using various payment methods, including cryptocurrency. On Windscribe's website, you'll find the company's ethics statement and a transparency report detailing every law-enforcement request it receives. This is an excellent policy that we hope more VPN companies will adopt in the future.
Speed and performance: Windscribe's performance was solid. Download speed test scores decreased by only 10.66%, upload speed test scores decreased by 13.20%, and latency increased by 67.01%. Windscribe delivered reliable, above-average speeds, making it excellent for streaming video and downloading content.
Streaming: Using Windscribe, we were able to watch Netflix without any restrictions. We could access the entire library when connected to five Windscribe servers in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the US.
User experience and ease of use: Minimalists will appreciate Windscribe's modest app interface. The Settings menu includes a helpful guide to all of the app's features. For example, if you don't know which VPN protocol to use, open the information button next to the setting's label and read the corresponding support page, which explains what the feature is and how to use it.
Who It's For
Users who want anonymity: If you're primarily concerned about your privacy and the transparency of your VPN, Windscribe is hard to beat. With anonymous signup methods and a robust free plan, users who want to keep their streaming under wraps will find Windscribe more than up to the task.
Users who want advanced browsing controls: Windscribe offers a content-filtering feature called R.O.B.E.R.T. You can use it to block ads, gambling content, malware, porn, social media, and more during your browsing.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Free Version Data Limit 10GB Per Month Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 69 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Learn More Windscribe VPN Review -
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Credit: Hide.me
![Hide.me VPN]()
Best for Free ExtrasHide.me VPN
Pros & Cons
For $9.95 per month, Hide.me offers access to thousands of servers in 57 countries. You can maintain up to 10 connections simultaneously, which is particularly beneficial for families or individuals with multiple devices. The free version has no data limits, which is excellent; however, its server selection is very limited, connection speeds are slower, and you can only connect one device at a time.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Hide.me’s must-haves, including firewall protection, a kill switch, multi-hop, and split tunneling. The interface has plenty of customization options, so you can configure your dashboard to your liking. Every plan includes SmartGuard, Hideme’s ad and tracker blocker. We found it to be reliable at blocking ads on text-based sites. You can also make use of Hide.me’s Bolt "Fast Proxy" if you want to just spoof your location without the performance downsides of encryption.
Privacy and security: Hide.me only requires your email address to make an account. With a wide range of secure, anonymous payment options, it’s easy to limit the data the service has access to. According to the privacy policy, the company collects your email and stores it in an encrypted form in a secure facility. Hide.me doesn't store any customer payment information or additional data, such as your IP address, physical address, or other personal information. Additionally, the service uses physical servers rather than virtual machines, giving the company greater control over how user data is handled.
Speed and performance: In our most recent tests, we were impressed with Hide.me’s performance. Download speeds only dropped by 5.93%, upload speeds by 22.72%, and latency increased by 92.11%. These results beat out the average impact across all VPNs that we tested.
Streaming: The app's website claims it works well with popular streaming services like BBC iPlayer and Disney+. During testing, we accessed Netflix while connected to servers in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the US with no issues or limitations.
User experience and ease of use: The interface is a bit busy on Windows, with a sectioned dashboard that puts the features and tools you want front and center. Beginner users may find it especially difficult to determine which tools are important and which can be ignored. If you’d rather skip the clutter, then you can use the macOS or mobile apps for a simpler user experience.
Who It's For
Budget-conscious customers: Hide.me offers a feature-packed free version you can try. The SmartGuard feature is particularly interesting: It is an all-in-one ad blocker, malware blocker, parental control app, and website filter.
Movie streamers: If you plan to watch a lot of movies or shows on Hulu, Netflix, or other video streaming services, Hide.me's unlimited traffic is a major plus.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit Five Locations Free Version Data Limit 10GB Per Month Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit 1 Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 89 Simultaneous VPN Connections 10 Learn More Hide.me VPN Review -
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4.5 Outstanding |
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Best For | Best Overall | Best Premium Features | Best for All-in-One Security | Best for Newbies | Best for Task-Specific Servers | Best Company Transparency | Best for Free Extras | Best Overall | Best Premium Features | Best for All-in-One Security |
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Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 | 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 | Unlimited | 10 | 10 | 6 | Unlimited |
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Server Locations | 129 countries | 118 countries | 100 Countries | 45 Countries | 90 Countries | 69 Countries | 89 | 129 countries | 118 countries | 100 Countries |
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Free Version Data Limit | Unlimited | No Free Version | No Free Version | 2GB per month | No Free Version | 10GB Per Month | 10GB Per Month | Unlimited | No Free Version | No Free Version |
Buying Guide: The Best VPNs for Netflix in 2026
How We Test VPNs for Netflix
We test every VPN the same way to ensure our data is consistent and that no service gets preferential treatment. All testing is done on a freshly updated Intel NUC 12 Enthusiast Kit “Serpent Canyon” running the latest version of Windows 11. The PC is set up in Portland, OR, and uses a local connection. In most cases, the fastest VPN server is located nearby in Seattle, WA.
Each VPN is installed from scratch and checked for updates. We then start tests by confirming that US-based Netflix connections still work while connected to the service’s network. We allow each service ten attempts to secure access. Every attempt is made from a different server location if possible. Some products don't allow you to select specific servers and instead only offer server choices at the country level. In these cases, we toggle the VPN connection on and off to try to force a fresh connection. When available, we use streaming-optimized servers to conduct tests. We repeat these tests for the UK, Australia, Japan, and Canada, and have a separate article where you can read more about accessing Netflix’s regional catalogs.
Even if a service successfully accesses Netflix, it may stop working with Netflix at some point and start working the next time (or vice versa) again. If streaming Netflix is your primary concern with VPNs, don't sign up for a year-long subscription. Instead, consider a month-to-month plan, as it lets you cancel your plan if Netflix blocks your VPN.
Note that while it's convenient when a VPN works with Netflix, this is not how we judge or test the best VPNs. We look at these as privacy products first, and we are more concerned with each service's features and the steps it takes to protect your online presence.
What Are the Different Types of Netflix Access?
Accessing Netflix with a VPN used to be straightforward. Netflix either gave you access to the entire catalog or showed an error message. Sometimes you’d get a message tailored to your VPN use, suggesting you switch off the VPN or proxy.
That experience changed in 2020. Instead of showing all the content for a region, Netflix would display a smaller subset. This catalog was almost entirely comprised of Netflix original programming, but it also included some licensed content not produced by Netflix. We previously indicated this state on charts as Netflix Originals, but now refer to it as Limited (short for limited access), which more accurately reflects the situation. It's important to note that you will only see Limited catalogs if you have a Netflix plan that isn't ad-supported. All ad-supported plans will face complete blocks when a VPN is detected instead.
In some ways, the Limited library is a good thing for customers. You're not entirely cut off from the content you're paying Netflix to see when you use a VPN. It also appears to be an admission by Netflix that it can't entirely prevent customers from using VPNs. Our most recent tests show that around half of the VPNs we tested experienced complete blocks in one or more regions, suggesting Netflix is ramping up its detection algorithms once again.
A good way to determine if you have complete access or are dealing with a Limited catalog is to check the My List section and compare what appears with and without the VPN. If it's different, you're likely viewing a Limited catalog. If you can view content from many different studios and producers that have temporary licensing deals with Netflix, you have what we refer to here as Open access.
Then there are complete blocks. In some instances, we have seen Netflix completely block access to some regions, so when you try to open the website or application, you're greeted with a message saying your IP address has been flagged and you can't access any libraries.
Please note that the Limited mode does not guarantee uninterrupted streaming. In some cases, we were blocked from viewing content when a Limited selection of shows and movies was presented. Our chart shows only the best results we observed across ten attempts.
What Is the Best VPN for Netflix?
A VPN earns a spot on this list if it can reliably grant access to US Netflix with an Open library. There should be no differences in the viewing experience with or without a connection to the service, and each one can stream all Netflix content from the regions we tested. To narrow our considerations further, we assessed the quality of the streams and excluded options that caused significant delays or buffering. However, keep in mind that your base connection speed will be the main factor in performance and stream stability. An already slow connection is unlikely to improve just because you are using a VPN. In fact, even the fastest VPNs will impact your speeds to some extent.
The full breakdown is shown in the chart above, which shows the best result for each service. That means some of the services we list as unblocked were functional at least once, though they may have been blocked on other attempts.
Why Does Netflix Block VPNs?
Netflix has different content available depending on your location. This is due to licensing deals that restrict the shows and movies that the streaming service can broadcast in certain regions. Netflix may be permitted to broadcast a series in a specific region, but it may not have the same rights to broadcast it in other regions. Such licensing deals are likely the reason that Netflix blocks VPN users.
Being blocked from Netflix is a bummer, and it's especially annoying when you're not trying to spoof your location. If you're concerned about the security of your network or just the general state of surveillance, it makes sense to use a VPN. Unfortunately, even if you've paid for everything that's locally available, Netflix will likely still attempt to block you if you try to access the service over a VPN.
While most people likely want to spoof their location to access content they wouldn't normally have access to, that's not always the case. Let's say you're from the US and you're watching your favorite show on Netflix. If you travel to the UK and try to watch it, you might discover that you can't—unless it's also available in the UK. With a VPN, you can conceivably keep watching as if you were back in the US.
Recommended by Our Editors
Whatever your situation, just remember that Netflix considers using a VPN to be a violation of its terms of service.
What to Do if Netflix Blocks Your VPN
Blocks usually aren’t permanent. The server you tried to connect with could have been detected by Netflix and blocklisted, meaning it won’t accept connections from that IP address. That’s why it is best to pick a VPN with a large server network in the regions where you plan to access streaming services. That way, you can swap out servers when one stops working. Here are some tactics you can try that may get Netflix working with your VPN of choice.
1. Switch Servers
Most VPN services have multiple servers in a given country, each with a distinct IP address. If you find yourself blocked at one VPN server, switch to another in the same country. Some VPNs let you view all available servers in each location, making the process easier. If your VPN doesn't do this, toggle it on and off to get a new IP address.
2. Use Every Tool at Your Disposal
Some VPN companies offer specialized servers and features designed for accessing video content from streaming services. If Netflix access is your primary concern, ensure that you select a service that offers these extras. Some VPNs are built solely for privacy and make no promises or efforts to grant access to streaming catalogs. Your VPN may also include a stealth mode or unblocking mode that aims to disguise VPN traffic. Familiarize yourself with all the available tools and utilize them effectively. Your VPN almost certainly has FAQs on streaming, so be sure to read them.
3. Be Flexible
Check if the show or movie you’re trying to stream is available in multiple catalogs or on a different platform. If you try other locations, you may have more luck. You may also need to come back later or on a different day. Accessing these catalogs can be challenging at best, so it's essential to set your expectations and understand that you may not be able to view everything you want to see every time. Sometimes it is a waiting game, as VPNs are always working to develop new ways past blocks. What doesn’t work today may work tomorrow or a week from now.
4. Consider a Static IP Address
Some VPNs offer static IP addresses for an additional fee. When you use a static IP, your data always appears to have the same public IP address. Sometimes, these addresses are private to the user, while at other times they are shared with a small number of others. Either way, it appears to be normal internet traffic and may not be blocked by Netflix. These are generally sold geographically, allowing you to select an IP address in the country of your choice. Keep in mind that there is no guarantee that a static IP address will work; therefore, be cautious before purchasing.
5. Use a Different VPN
It is best not to get too attached to a specific VPN if your main use case is accessing regional content. Take advantage of free trials and monthly memberships to easily switch providers when one stops working. It’s going to cost more up-front since most services charge more for month-to-month memberships, but we think it is worth it for the extra flexibility.
Will a VPN Slow Down Netflix?
Yes. Whether it will impact your viewing experience is another matter. That will depend on several variables, including your base internet speed and the server you connect to. VPNs reroute your data, which causes it to travel further than it would with your base connection. That travel inevitably leads to reduced performance.
For Netflix streaming, this is a recipe for stuttering audio or even for your video dropping from HD to blocky, low-resolution. Netflix's documentation outlines the amount of data the service requires, suggesting approximately 1GB of data per hour for standard-definition video and up to 3GB per hour for HD video.
Generally, you experience increased latency when using a VPN. You also see a decrease in upload and download speeds. Our testing measures the percent change between speed test results with and without the VPN running. To measure internet speeds, we use the Ookla Speedtest tool. Note that speed tests are variable. Your experience with the same service could be vastly different from ours. Regional infrastructure, server congestion, and your base internet speed all play a huge role in the performance you get from a VPN connection. (Editors' Note: Ookla is owned by Ziff Davis, PCMag's parent company. For more, see the ethics policy in our Editorial Mission Statement.)
The following chart shows the speed test results we have recorded:
What's the Best Free VPN for Netflix?
No free VPN will work with Netflix every time. There are excellent free VPN services available, but most will limit your data and server access. Those are key features for accessing services like Netflix. You’re likely to encounter blocked servers and may quickly exhaust your bandwidth if you manage to bypass the blocks.
Even our top free pick, Proton VPN, won’t guarantee access. It doesn’t have any data caps, but it does limit your connectivity options to a handful of servers. That will make spoofing your location difficult and means you are competing with many other free users for limited bandwidth on the designated free servers.
If you can spare a little bit of money, try one of our top-rated cheap VPNs. These services cost significantly less than the average monthly price we've seen across the industry. In general, these services offer more flexibility than free VPNs, with more servers and server locations to choose from.