The Best Free VPN for Netflix: Beating the Ban in 2022
Netflix is one of the world’s leading streaming services, with tons of movies and TV shows available. However, because of content copyrights and royalties, you get access to only a fraction of the entire Netflix library. If you want to skirt around Netflix's digital borders and watch all the best shows, read on to find the best VPN for Netflix.
Although Netflix is available in over 190 countries, not all users have the same experience. The movies and TV shows you watch on your Netflix account in the U.S. might not be accessible when you travel abroad. Fortunately, with the best VPN for Netflix, you can sneak around the digital roadblocks and access Netflix libraries regardless of your location.
A virtual private network (VPN) cloaks your IP address, enabling you to bypass Netflix geo-restrictions. It also helps defeat internet service provider (ISP) throttling that slows down your internet connection, ruining the streaming experience.
However, not all VPNs can circumvent the Netflix VPN ban. We did the heavy lifting for you, testing hundreds of VPN services to narrow your options down to seven VPNs.
Key Takeaways:
- ExpressVPN is the undisputed best Netflix VPN, thanks to its stellar speed, strong security, and a one-of-a-kind ability to get into all Netflix libraries.
- The NordLynx protocol has greatly reduced the inconsistent speed that is used to hold back NordVPN. As a result, NordVPN is a hair’s breadth behind ExpressVPN as the best Netflix VPN.
- Surfshark and CyberGhost are cheaper alternatives to ExpressVPN and NordVPN, whereas Windscribe is the best free Netflix VPN.
- Not all VPNs work with Netflix. You get a fast one like Hotspot Shield, but its privacy isn’t great. On the other hand, you get one that guarantees top-notch security and privacy like Private Internet Access, but it can’t consistently access Netflix.
- ExpressVPN came out on top due to its consistently fast speeds and unrivaled ability to get into Netflix libraries — and it can also help you watch Netflix for free. Although it’s the best Netflix VPN, it’s not the only option, so keep reading for more choices. We’ll also tell you the VPN features to look out for when searching for a Netflix VPN.
What VPNs Work Best With Netflix?
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Netflix. It has an unparalleled ability to break into Netflix libraries and is the fastest VPN on the market.
Is It Illegal to Use a VPN for Netflix?
No law criminalizes the use of VPNs to unblock Netflix, which is in the U.S. and over 180 countries in the world. However, be sure to check whether the country you’re traveling to has banned VPNs or Netflix, in general.
Why Is My Netflix VPN Not Working?
If you’re getting a proxy error message, it could be that Netflix detects you’re using a VPN. To fix the error, switch the VPN server or swap to a superior VPN provider.
How to Watch Netflix With VPN Servers?
It’s super easy. Download and install the VPN of your choice. Next, decide which Netflix library offers the type of movies and TV shows you like. Connect the VPN to that server location and login to your Netflix account to kick-start the fun-filled ride.
What Makes the Best VPN for Netflix?
When shopping around for the best Netflix VPN, it’s tempting to grab the fastest VPN provider and be on your way. However, that might present you with some hiccups because watching Netflix requires more than just speed. We’ll get into the details of the features you need to look out for, but first, here are our top seven picks in this category.
- ExpressVPN — Blazing-fast VPN that gets into any Netflix library
- NordVPN — Privacy juggernaut with advanced SmartPlay technology
- CyberGhost — Affordable Netflix VPN with streaming-optimized servers
- Surfshark — Pocket-friendly VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections
- Windscribe — Best free Netflix VPN
- ProtonVPN — Secure VPN with a reliable ad blocker
- VyprVPN — Decent VPN with secure and fast Chameleon protocol
First and foremost, you need to get into the Netflix library to access your favorite flicks. To that end, you need a service with VPN servers in all popular Netflix regions. The larger the pool of IP addresses in each VPN server location, the better. Some VPNs offer to stream- or Netflix-optimized servers and those should get you into Netflix without hassle.
Getting you into the Netflix library is just one piece of the puzzle. Netflix streaming is a speed-intensive activity, and your VPN of choice should be fast enough to support lag-free performance whether you’re watching 4K or HD videos. Besides that, the VPN service should support unlimited bandwidth and data, so you can enjoy an uninterrupted experience.
Lastly, consider features that enhance your streaming experience. Security is paramount if you want to stream securely and bypass ISP bandwidth limits. Moreover, get a VPN compatible with the devices you use to stream Netflix (mobile compatibility is great if you’re constantly on the move).