Netflix is pressing down hard on VPNs—and while most VPNs claim they can access it, many can’t anymore. Our research team from 42 different countries spent more than a year examining all 300 VPNs claiming to work with Netflix. We found only 10 that really do work consistently and are reliable and fast enough for me to recommend them.

My top choice is NordVPN for Netflix. With lightning-fast speeds and the ability to fly past geo-restrictions, it makes unblocking Netflix look almost easy. See my complete analysis of it and nine other great VPNs that work with Netflix.

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How Can Netflix Find and Block You?

Netflix uses your IP address to find out where you are. It uses your location to determine which TV shows and movies you can view, and which to block. This is called geoblocking and it’s what causes you to see that annoying error message on your screen:

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. For more help, visit netflix.com/proxy.

With the VPNs I’ve researched for you, it’s easy to change your Netflix region. Just install the right VPN straight to your device, hop onto a server in a different country, and unblock your desired Netflix library.

Fast and simple.

Want to unblock Netflix US? Connect to a US server and get a US IP address. This makes Netflix think you’re actually in the US, so it unlocks all of its content for you, while other VPNs will just be detected and blocked.

Quick Guide – How to Unblock Netflix With a VPN Choose a VPN that’s proven for bypassing Netflix geoblocks, like NordVPN. It’s my top choice because of its server coverage, speed, and ease of use. Connect your VPN to a server in your target country. For example, to access Netflix US, you need to connect to a US server. Find your favorite TV show or movie on Netflix, and start streaming!

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The Best VPNs for Netflix – Full Analysis (Updated September 2020)

To access all of Netflix’s content, you need a VPN that’s actually going to work. After weeks of research, here are my 10 best VPNs for Netflix.

Unblocks Netflix US, UK, CA, FR, IT, DE, JP, AU, ES, NL, and others

Lightning-fast speeds and unlimited data

SmartPlay feature for streaming

6 simultaneous connections

Works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Fox, Sky TV

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS, Chrome, Linux, routers, smart TVs

NordVPN is my top choice for any activity—not just streaming Netflix. It came out on top in every test I ran, from bypassing geoblocks to speed tests.

NordVPN makes bold claims about what it can do, so the first thing I did was call on operatives in 20 different countries, including the US, the UK, Australia, India, China, South Africa, Brazil, and Russia. We used NordVPN’s worldwide network of 5,400 servers to see which libraries we could unlock.

Our results were better than expected: We broke through the geo-restrictions of every library we tried. Even our agents in China and Russia could access Netflix catalogs in the US, the UK, the Netherlands, France, Italy, Germany, and more.

What’s better, all researchers reported crystal-clear picture and the ability to stream in HD.

Next, I did some comparisons against a UK connection with 11 ms ping, 55.73 Mbps download, and 11.88 Mbps upload. These speeds are decent, but would NordVPN slow them down too much? Here were my results:

Connection Ping Download Speed Upload Speed Starting speed 11 ms 55.73 Mbps 11.88 Mbps Quick connect UK server 10 ms 52.76 Mbps 11.30 Mbps Manual connect UK server 16 ms 48.63 Mbps 11.06 Mbps Quick connect US server 154 ms 47.58 Mbps 11.22 Mbps Manual connect US server 234 ms 32.11 Mbps 10.89 Mbps Quick connect FR server 35 ms 53.71 Mbps 11.32 Mbps Quick connect BR server 373 ms 25.73 Mbps 1.97 Mbps Quick connect AU server 487 ms 39.40 Mbps 9.27 Mbps

Even my slowest connection to the US was only a 42% drop, and it was well over Netflix’s minimum requirement of 25 Mbps for Ultra HD streaming, so I could easily explore that library to see some TV shows I can’t get in Britain.

NordVPN is great for streaming because it offers unlimited bandwidth and no throttling. No matter when or how long you stream, you won’t experience lag or buffering—I even tested it in Ultra HD to be sure.

NordVPN’s SmartPlay technology, which automatically combines Smart DNS with VPN security, is what allows users to quickly get past Netflix’s geo-restrictions, no matter how hard it tries. The app is also so easy to use—it took me just two minutes to get up and running so I could binge Stranger Things. You can try it risk-free for 30 days and get a full refund if it’s not right for you.

Want to know more? Explore our NordVPN review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Unblocks Netflix US, UK, FR, AU, JP, BR, DE, and many others

Speedy servers with a built-in speed tester

Unlimited data and 5 simultaneous connections

24/7 live chat and 30-day money-back guarantee

Works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Sky TV, ITV Hub

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS Chrome, Linux, routers, Apple TV

ExpressVPN has a lot going for it, and its speeds and reliability for Netflix are at the top of the list.

My team of operatives first tested ExpressVPN’s network of 3,000 servers across 94 countries. We easily unlocked over three dozen Netflix libraries, including those from popular countries like the US, the UK, France, Australia, and Japan. We even gained access to more obscure catalogs in Brazil, Germany, Panama, and Vietnam.

Our tests proved why having lots of servers is critical—Netflix gets better at blocking VPNs all the time. With so many servers in each location, we could simply connect to another if Netflix blocked one.

Another thing we discovered is that this VPN really is lightning-fast. I connected from the UK to a US server for American Netflix, and I was able to stream in Ultra HD, smoothly with no annoying buffering. And even when I connected to a server on the other side of the world to stream Netflix Australia, my speeds held at a decent 36.97 Mbps download and 6.44 Mbps upload.

Connection Ping Download Speed Upload Speed Starting speed from the UK 11 ms 55.73 Mbps 11.88 Mbps Quick connect UK server 13 ms 51.70 Mbps 11.08 Mbps Manual connect UK server 13 ms 51.64 Mbps 10.55 Mbps Quick connect US server 148 ms 44.83 Mbps 7.09 Mbps Manual connect US server 103 ms 39.85 Mbps 9.75 Mbps Quick connect FR server 32 ms 42.13 Mbps 11.09 Mbps Quick connect BR server 198 ms 40.94 Mbps 6.46 Mbps Quick connect AU server 287 ms 36.97 Mbps 6.44 Mbps

One exclusive ExpressVPN perk that I really love is its built-in speed tester. Run it before connecting to see the speeds of recommended servers or any from a list you choose. This feature makes it so easy to instantly spot the right server for streaming in Ultra HD.

ExpressVPN is also a great choice for Netflix because it provides unlimited data—note many VPNs WILL limit your data, making binging impossible. You also get 5 simultaneous connections to stream Netflix across all of your devices and access to 24/7 live chat for fast problem-solving.

Interested? There’s a 30-day money-back guarantee. I took advantage of it via live chat; it only took 90 seconds to cancel my service and initiate a refund.

Want to know more? Explore our ExpressVPN review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Unblocks Netflix US, UK, CA, FR, SG, IT, and more

Fast speeds for buffer-free streaming

NoBorders mode to unblock streaming sites

Unlimited simultaneous connections and 24/7 live chat

Works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Sky TV, ESPN

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS Chrome, Linux, routers, Fire TV

Surfshark’s 1,700 worldwide servers make it a great contender for streaming multiple Netflix catalogs.

I’d heard lots of good things about how Surfshark’s NoBorders mode flies past geoblocks of all kinds, even in restrictive countries. So I had researchers in the US, Australia, and India help me put it to the test. I’m happy to report that we could access lots of popular Netflix catalogs, including the US, UK, Canada, France, Singapore, and Italy.

Even my operatives in China, Russia, Turkey, and the UAE could access these Netflix libraries—that’s a major win as many VPNs don’t work in China at all. That’s thanks to Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode, which disguises the fact that you’re using a VPN, making your activity look like normal online traffic. Your ISP can’t see that you’re using Netflix; it thinks you’re just browsing.

As we tried Surfshark’s various servers, we found the VPN’s speeds to be fast and reliable. As with all VPNs, my speeds did slow, but I had no playback issues. For example, even the 34% decrease in download speed when I connected to an Australian server from the UK wasn’t enough to cause a blurry picture—I still enjoyed clear Ultra HD streaming with no lagging.

Connection Ping Download Speed Upload Speed Starting speed in the UK 11 ms 55.73 Mbps 11.88 Mbps Quick connect UK server 16 ms 48.52 Mbps 11.14 Mbps Manual connect UK server 22 ms 53.18 Mbps 11.17 Mbps Quick connect US server 149 ms 53.26 Mbps 10.96 Mbps Manual connect US server 201 ms 47.78 Mbps 7.46 Mbps Quick connect FR server 18 ms 54.52 Mbps 11.18 Mbps Quick connect BR server 295 ms 44.03 Mbps 8.28 Mbps Quick connect AU server 281 ms 36.71 Mbps 7.17 Mbps

Unlimited data, bandwidth, and simultaneous connections make Surfshark great value for streamers—there are absolutely no limits to get in the way of your movie and TV show marathons.

If you’re ready to sign up, go ahead and make the most of Surfshark’s 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more? Explore our Surfshark review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Optimized servers unblock Netflix US, UK, FR, DE, and JP

Super-fast speeds and unlimited data

Up to 45-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 live chat

Works with: Netflix, Disney+, HBO, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, CBS, NBC

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Chrome, Linux, routers, Xbox

CyberGhost always lands high up in our reviews when it comes to testing its ease of use. Not only is the app quick to download and easy to set up, but it comes with specialized servers that make streaming effortless.

CyberGhost has an incredible network of 6,000 servers in 90 countries, but as we tested Netflix libraries around the world, we found that we could only consistently unlock the catalogs of the UK, the US, Canada, France, Spain, Germany, and Japan. This isn’t a lot, but they’re the most popular countries, so that’s good.

While we also manually chose servers for testing purposes, we found that connecting to the VPN’s streaming-optimized servers was by far the most reliable, consistent way to bypass Netflix’s tough geoblocks. Just click the For Streaming menu and choose a Netflix-tagged server in the country of your choice—no manual screening necessary.

CyberGhost’s speeds are super fast, so there’s no buffering, and you have unlimited data, which is not something every VPN offers. I put these features to the test by watching eight hours of Ozark on Netflix US, and I enjoyed a consistently high-quality picture and no lag. I checked my speed several times throughout my marathon, and I always hovered above 10 Mbps download—that’s impressive for a connection traveling over 6,800 kilometers.

Connection Ping Download Speed Upload Speed Starting speed from the UK 11 ms 55.73 Mbps 11.88 Mbps Quick connect UK server 17 ms 37.53 Mbps 10.95 Mbps Manual connect UK server 11 ms 17.90 Mbps 10.85 Mbps Quick connect US server 191 ms 10.18 Mbps 8.19 Mbps Manual connect US server 151 ms 20.61 Mbps 10.51 Mbps Quick connect FR server 38 ms 28.93 Mbps 11.35 Mbps Quick connect BR server 567 ms 9.32 Mbps 6.80 Mbps Quick connect AU server 510 ms 6.72 Mbps 2.56 Mbps

You can have up to 7 simultaneous connections with your subscription, and you’re also protected by a 45-day money-back guarantee if you choose a plan of six months or greater. If you need help, you can use CyberGhost’s 24/7 live chat.

Want to know more? Explore our CyberGhost review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Reliably unblocks Netflix UK, US, Canada, and Australia

Unlimited bandwidth and up to 10 simultaneous device connections

30-day money-back guarantee

Works with: Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, Crunchyroll, CBS, Showtime

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS, Chrome, Linux, routers

With intuitive and user-friendly apps, Private Internet Access is a great choice of VPN is you’re looking to unblock global Netflix content for the first time.

My team tried to access dozens of Netflix libraries from several countries around the world. In the end, we could only consistently unblock Netflix in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. This was a bit surprising as Private Internet Access has 11,250 servers across 74 countries. While I wish we could have accessed more, these results still provided us with tons of content that would have otherwise been unavailable.

To really test the service’s speeds, I had an agent connect to a server in Australia from the US—that’s more than 15,000 kilometers away! At that distance, we braced for the worst, but we were pleasantly surprised to see consistent speeds in the range of 6 to 8 Mbps download—more than enough for streaming in HD with no buffering problems. When she connected to a closer Canadian server, her speeds jumped to 17.39 Mbps download.

Connection Ping Avg. Download Avg. Upload Starting speed from the UK 9 ms 62.59 Mbps 14.72 Mbps Quick connect UK server 13 ms 24.75 Mbps 11.21 Mbps Manual connect UK server 15 ms 58.46 Mbps 11.88 Mbps Quick connect US server 23 ms 45.58 Mbps 11.22 Mbps Manual connect US server 31 ms 39.57 Mbps 10.38 Mbps Quick connect FR server 117 ms 21.28 Mbps 11.48 Mbps Quick connect BR server 375 ms 9.32 Mbps 6.80 Mbps Quick connect AU server 226 ms 9.20 Mbps 11.25 Mbps

As with the other VPNs on my list, this service includes unlimited bandwidth so you can watch without restrictions. It also offers up to 10 simultaneous connections—this is much more generous than most VPNs.

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Want to know more? Explore our Private Internet Access review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Unblocks Netflix US, UK, CA, AU, FR, DE, and many others

Unlimited data and up to 6 simultaneous connections

24/7 live chat and 30-day money-back guarantee

Works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Chrome, Firefox, routers

With lots of helpful support, PrivateVPN is a strong choice if you’re new to VPNs. Plus it comes with fast speeds and reliable connections for watching Netflix.

Compared to other services on my list, PrivateVPN has a tiny network of 150 servers in 60 countries, so I was initially concerned about whether this was enough to unlock anything.

But the VPN went on to show that size isn’t everything: My researchers around the world were able to access Netflix UK, US, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, and dozens of others. PrivateVPN’s secret is its regularly updated IP addresses—companies like Netflix just can’t keep up.

From the UK, I tried an array of international servers. PrivateVPN helped make it easier to find the right one by labeling its streaming-optimized servers and including the current ping time for each. However, it was during my speed tests that I encountered my first hiccups.

When I connected to some North American servers, including the US, Canada, and Mexico, I could easily maintain 10+ Mbps download speeds. But my speeds dropped to just 6.11 Mbps download when I connected to Australia. These are significant speed drops, no doubt, but I was still able to stream in at least HD. My advice: If you connect to a slower server, just try another.

While the speed tests could have been better, PrivateVPN is still a good contender for Netflix streamers because it offers unlimited data for uninterrupted binging and up to 6 simultaneous connections so the whole family can stream their favorite shows at the same time.

Like other services, PrivateVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, but while I was poking around the terms and conditions, I found that you have to stay under 100GB of traffic to qualify, so keep this in mind.

Want to know more? Explore our PrivateVPN review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Unblocks Netflix US, UK, CA, and DE

Chameleon technology to fight geoblocks

Dynamic server switching for guaranteed access

5 simultaneous connections and unlimited data

30-day money-back guarantee

Works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, Sky TV

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS Chrome, Firefox, Linux, routers

VyprVPN is one of the only VPNs that uses its own security protocol. It’s specifically designed to unlock restricted sites like Netflix so you can access blocked content from around the world.

This protocol is called Chameleon, and it scrambles metadeta so that ISPs, governments, and blocked services can’t tell you’re using a VPN—a must-have to get around government censorship in countries like China and Iran.

The service also has over 700 servers spanning 65 countries, translating to more than 2,000,000 IP addresses. So many connections mean that it’s unlikely Netflix can detect and block you. If it does, just connect to another server.

However, during my tests, I found that the only servers you need to concern yourself with are the US, UK, CA, and DE ones as those are the only Netflix libraries that my team and I were able to unblock.

It’s too bad VyprVPN can’t access more catalogs, but on the plus side, we didn’t encounter any blocked IP addresses. My agents in three Chinese cities also confirmed that the Chameleon protocol worked flawlessly.

From the US, my colleagues were able to access the Canada and UK Netflix libraries easily—they tested this extensively while catching up on Tiger King, and they could stream every episode with perfect picture and no delays.

But when they tried to view Netflix Germany, they could only view SD, and they had to let the video load for a minute to prevent lagging. That’s because their speed dropped to an average of just 2.41 Mbps download. Thankfully, our researchers didn’t have the same problem when they accessed US servers from Europe and Asia.

A unique VyprVPN feature that streamers are sure to love is its dynamic server switching. If a server goes down or becomes overcrowded while you’re watching Netflix, you’re automatically moved to a new one in the same area. Combine this with unlimited data and the ability to connect up to 5devices at once, and VyprVPN recovers a bit from its missteps in speed and limited Netflix access.

Want to know more? Explore our VyprVPN review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Unblocks Netflix US

High speeds and unlimited data

30-day money-back guarantee

Unlimited simultaneous connections

Works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, SlingTV, Vudu, ESPN, DAZN

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS Chrome, Firefox, Linux, routers, Chromebook

IPVanish does exactly as it says in its name, vanishing your IP address so you can get around strict geoblocks from the likes of Netflix, SlingTV, and other streaming platforms.

While IPVanish has over 1,300 servers in over 75 locations and works with lots of streaming services, my tests showed that it can only unblock the Netflix US library right now. This means this VPN is only really suitable for Netflix streamers located outside the US or US residents who often travel internationally.

I had one of my Canadian agents stream from three US servers to see what speeds were like. Her slowest speed was 13.74 Mbps download, which was only about a 7% decrease from her starting speed of 14.84 Mbps download. She could stream in Ultra HD with no issues.

As researchers from overseas tried the US servers, they did see slower speeds due to the distance data had to travel. However, even my colleague in Australia could connect to a US server with a download speed of 7.12 Mbps download—more than enough for HD streaming.

IPVanish’s app is simple to set up. In fact, from the UK, I had the software downloaded, loaded, and connected to a US server in under five minutes. You get up to Unlimited simultaneous connections per subscription—many more than most providers—plus you can take advantage of its free 7-day trial on iOS devices and a 30-day money-back guarantee to test the service risk-free.

Want to know more? Explore our IPVanish review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Streaming optimized servers unblock Netflix US, DE, FR, and JP

Unlimited data and bandwidth, plus Unlimited simultaneous connections

Easy-to-use app with bookmarking feature

30-day money-back guarantee

Works with: Netflix, Disney+, HBO, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, SHOWTIME

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS, Chrome, Linux, routers, Chromebook

For a less well-known VPN, ZenMate has some convenient features for streamers. There are Netflix-optimized servers, too, which makes bypassing restrictions even easier.

ZenMate has 3,400 servers in 74 countries. If Netflix US is high on your list, you’ll be pleased to know there are 500+ servers in six US locations, and we were able to unlock it from 12 countries during our tests. We could also access Netflix Germany, France, and Japan—every server we tried worked.

One of the best things about ZenMate’s servers is that some are specifically optimized for streaming Netflix and other services. When our team tried these servers, geoblocks were instantly knocked down so we could access Netflix in just seconds. When we found really good servers, we used the app’s bookmark feature to keep them pinned to the top of our lists—very convenient and a huge benefit for those who do lots of streaming.

During one of my researcher’s tests from the US, which he did morning, day, and night to check for consistency, his speeds were steady and reliable, with minimal buffering. His speeds on German servers (which other services struggled with) averaged a remarkable 11.05 Mbps download, while his connection to much-farther-away Japan averaged an even-more-incredible 9.78 Mbps download.

Unlike other services I tried, I found it slightly annoying that I couldn’t use ZenMate immediately after paying. Instead, I had to wait about 10 minutes for the company to send my login credentials. However, after that, setup was smooth and easy. I tried the apps for Windows, Android, and Chromebook, and they all worked flawlessly. Oh, and if some of the apps look familiar to you, that’s not a coincidence—ZenMate is also owned by CyberGhost’s parent company.

With ZenMate, you get unlimited data, so there’s nothing stopping you from streaming for hours, and you can connect up to Unlimited devices at once.

For support, there are plenty of FAQs and quick guides on the website. There’s also a live chat service if you have a specific question. With the VPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test the service like I did completely risk-free.

Want to know more? Explore our ZenMate review to see the full results of our research and testing.

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Unlocks Netflix US with servers optimized for streaming

5 simultaneous connections

24/7 live chat and 30-day money-back guarantee

Works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, SHOWTIME

Compatible with: Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS, Chrome, Firefox, Linux, routers

With everything controlled in-house, SaferVPN offers high-quality servers with incredible speeds for hassle-free Netflix streaming.



SaferVPN has streaming-optimized servers around the world to unlock several streaming services, but at present, it can only unblock Netflix USA.

My operatives in Australia, Germany, Brazil, Canada, and China put SaferVPN’s servers to the test to see if they could access Netflix US. All reported successes, except China. Unfortunately, SaferVPN isn’t strong enough to defeat the Great Firewall.

When we ran speed tests on the VPN’s self-managed US servers, we found that some other services like NordVPN are faster, but the VPN still held its own. Our agent in Canada enjoyed speeds of 15.29 Mbps download, and our researcher in France only saw about a 20% reduction in speed. In all cases, our testers could enjoy easy, buffer-free streaming in at least HD.

With SaferVPN, you have unlimited bandwidth and data, up to 5 simultaneous connections per account, and access to apps for multiple devices. I found the Firefox and Chrome browser extensions to be especially nice. These lightweight addons installed in seconds and worked with just one click.

Around-the-clock customer support is available through the live chat—I tested the support with a few questions, and the reps were helpful every time. I also checked out the site’s step-by-step setup guides and FAQs, and they were good, too.

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The VPNs That Don’t Work With Netflix

My tests revealed plenty of VPNs that don’t work with Netflix, so make sure you avoid these ones.

TunnelBear

I tried Netflix across multiple TunnelBear servers in different locations and had no luck. It can unblock some other streaming services though, but Netflix’s geoblocks are tough to get around as we know. Read our full TunnelBear review to find out more.

Unlocator

I didn’t even need to try this VPN to know that it doesn’t work with Netflix, since this information is already available. I did test it, though, just for good measure – it definitely doesn’t work. Want to find out what Unlocator can do? Read our full review.

Research Methodology

To see which top VPN is capable of unblocking Netflix over time with proven performance, I’ve checked hundreds of elements in over 300 VPNs, in several devices and with careful analysis of the obtained data. During my research, I’ve tested for:

Large number of servers across multiple countries to ensure you can access any Netflix library, with periodic tests to ensure consistency

Consistently fast speeds and unlimited data and bandwidth so you can stream in high-definition, uninterrupted, including long-range connections, during local peak demand windows

User-friendly interface and fast, easy setup, so anyone can stream whatever they want, without previous technical know-how

Server and service technology with proven ability to bypass any Netflix library’s geoblocks, undetected, so you can access global content easily

Access to helpful, responsive live support so you can get your questions answered quickly (tested day and night, in several technical cases)

Streaming-optimized servers for easy, high-quality streaming to ensure a constant viewing experience over time

FAQs

? Can Netflix detect a VPN?

Netflix checks your IP address against a third-party database to see if you’re connected to a known VPN server. Even if your VPN usually works for other streaming services, you still might not be able to watch your Netflix show. If it matches your IP address to one on the list, you’ll be blocked.

Most leading VPNs change and update their IP addresses regularly enough to avoid being detected and blocked, which is why they are so reliable.

Is using a VPN for Netflix legal?

In most countries, you can use whichever VPN you like. And, streaming on Netflix is not an illegal activity itself.

Some countries place heavy restrictions on what you can and can’t do, which includes the use of VPNs. Countries like China and Russia for example, only allow government-approved VPNs.

? How do I change my Netflix region?

All you need to do is open your VPN app and find a different server. If you’re already connected to one, disconnect and choose one in the country with the Netflix library you want access to. For example, for Netflix UK you’d need a UK server.

? Can I watch Netflix on my phone with a VPN?

Yes! All of the VPNs I’ve recommended offer desktop and mobile apps, so you can stream on whichever device you like, at home or on the go.

Why do these VPNs work when others don’t?

Netflix employs sophisticated anti-VPN technology to block users from accessing content from outside their home country. There are several ways it can do this, including checking ports commonly used by VPNs and blocking IP addresses that have been linked to VPNs.

In order to get around these tough blocks, VPNs have to be as sophisticated as the streaming service. This takes time and money, something smaller or less-reputable VPN services are not willing to invest. All the trusted VPNs on my list work hard to ensure you can always access Netflix and other restricted sites.

What do I do if Netflix is blocking my VPN?

If you’re using an advanced VPN that’s been proven to bypass Netflix’s geoblocks, all you have to do is disconnect from your current server and try another in the country of the Netflix library you’re trying to access. If you’re VPN isn’t powerful enough to get around geo-restrictions, replace it with one of the Netflix VPNs from my list.

What countries will these VPNs work in?

These VPNs will work in many countries throughout the world. Some, including NordVPN and ExpressVPN, even work in countries where the internet is heavily censored by the government, such as China and Iran.

? How do I access the Netflix catalogs of other countries?

To access the Netflix catalog of a country you’re not currently in, it’s usually as simple as just turning on your VPN, connecting to a server in your target country, and then opening up Netflix—it’s that easy! Your Netflix login details are valid for all catalogs around the world, so you won’t need to purchase any additional subscriptions.

Some VPNs can unblock certain Netflix libraries, though, and not others. All the ones on this list are reliable for unblocking Netflix libraries around the world.

Why does Netflix have different libraries in different countries?

Netflix is bound by the copyright and licensing terms set forth by content producers. This means that when it gets permission to broadcast a TV show or a movie in a particular country, that’s the only place it can do it. If it wants to show that same program elsewhere, it needs to obtain separate streaming rights, if it can.

? Can I unblock Netflix by setting up the VPN on a router?

Yes, as long as you’re connected to your VPN—even through the router—you can unblock Netflix. The biggest benefit of installing a VPN on your router is that you’ll enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections for all devices that connect via WiFi. This can be very helpful when you have a house full of people who all want to watch their own shows or movies.

Can I unblock both the Netflix app and Netflix in a web browser?

When you connect to Netflix, the streaming service sends out a DNS request—basically a request for information about you, such as your location and IP address. VPNs that unblock Netflix in a web browser ensure that all the info they send matches the location of the server you’re connected to. When Netflix sees matching info, it allows you access to its content.

However, when you connect to the Netflix app, it generally forces your device to send info about your actual location. As soon as Netflix sees that your physical location and IP address location don’t match, you’re blocked.

But don’t worry: Many premium VPNs, including the ones I’ve recommended above, have determined how to get around this anti-VPN feature so that you can stream as easily on the app as you can in a browser.

? How do I unblock Netflix on Apple TV?

Apple TV doesn’t allow for the installation of a VPN app, so you have to take a couple of extra steps to get around geoblocks while using this streaming device.

One option is to get Netflix going on your VPN-enabled iPhone or iPad, and then cast the stream to your Apple TV using Airplay. This is easy to do, but you’ll have to go through the process every time you want to stream.

Another idea is to install your VPN on your router, and then connect your Apple TV to that router’s WiFi. This process takes a little longer in the beginning, but once you’re up and running, it’s as easy as activating your VPN connection.

To learn more about these methods, plus one more, take a look at our guide on how to set up a VPN on your Apple TV.

Bottom Line

A good VPN will mask your IP so it looks like you’re accessing the internet from another country. This bypasses Netflix’s geo-restrictions, granting you access to that country’s catalog—including exclusive shows and movies that you can’t watch on your local Netflix server.

But be careful – not all VPNs are equal, and most can’t unblock Netflix at all.

I’ve tested my top recommendations extensively to ensure they can defeat Netflix’s VPN blocks while keeping your data safe and anonymous. My top pick is NordVPN, thanks to its speeds, worldwide server coverage, and features designed for streaming.

To summarize, the best VPNs for Netflix in 2020 are…