The best Netflix VPN in 2024

Best Netflix VPN on a laptop PC
(Image credit: Future)

There are dozens of streaming services these days but Netflix (and its iconic tu-dum sound) remains the most recognizable. It makes sense – Netflix boasts over 260 million subscribers and a huge catalog of shows and movies, with new ones arriving constantly. To make sure that you don't miss out on a single new arrival, you'll likely want to get the best Netflix VPN.

Downloading the best VPN for Netflix opens up a whole extra layer of content that you ordinarily wouldn't get. By changing the IP address of your device to another country altogether, you'll be able to stream content exclusively available in other territories – or watch your favorites when you're abroad.

Competition is ferocious between VPN providers for the crown of best Netflix VPN, with each one claiming to be the top dog. So to make sure you can trust the marketing spiel, we've tested and reviewed dozens of VPNs for Netflix, and narrowed down the top five you should pick from. You'll find an in-depth analysis of each on this page, plus handy information about how safe it is to use a VPN with Netflix. If you're in a hurry, though, just pick from the best three below.

The best Netflix VPNs at a glance

1. NordVPN – the very best Netflix VPN

1. NordVPN – the very best Netflix VPN
NordVPN is the most effective VPN for unblocking Netflix that we've tested. Not only does it have an excellent record for accessing geo-restricted content from pretty much anywhere in the world, it's also fast, secure and easy to use. Prices start at $3.09 per month and it even has a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

2. Surfshark – the best cheap Netflix VPN

2. Surfshark – the best cheap Netflix VPN
While it may be cheaper than the competition, Surfshark certainly isn't lower quality. It unblocks pretty much every streaming service including Netflix, and tops out our speed tests. You can also use it across every device you have thanks to its unlimited simultaneous connections with one subscription. Prices start at $2.19 per month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.  

3. ExpressVPN – the easiest Netflix VPN to use

3. ExpressVPN – the easiest Netflix VPN to use
ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for a safe and effective VPN for Netflix. The apps are very easy to use, and it offers servers in 160 locations, so you're bound to access to what you want to watch. It is a little more expensive than its competitors, with prices starting at $6.67 per month but there is also a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you change your mind. 

Recent updates

This update saw me double-check all out providers' specs to give you the most up-to-date comparison and help you choose which VPN is right for you.

My tried and tested best Netflix VPNs of 2024

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

NordVPN: the best Netflix VPN today

NordVPN on a range of devices

(Image credit: NordVPN)

1. NordVPN

The best Netflix VPN available

Unblocks Netflix: Yes (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) | Other services unblocked: Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, ITVX, ITV, C4, 9Now, 10 Play | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | 24/7 customer suppoort: Yes | Simultaneous connections: 10

Good speeds
Big, reliable name
Tons of locations supported
Unblocks tons of other streaming sites
Mobile apps are a bit fussy
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want access to Netflix shows from all over the world: NordVPN can unblock almost any Netflix library you would want it to, including difficult-to-access Japanese content.

✔️ You want an all-in-one VPN: NordVPN is fast, reliable, and offers more than enough privacy features, making it a well-rounded pick.

✔️ You prefer to watch Netflix on the TV: NordVPN is compatible with Apple TV, Roku and Chromecast, among several other devices. 

Avoid if:

 You mostly use Netflix on your phone: though not overly troublesome, the NordVPN Android and iOS apps for mobile phones are a little tricky to use compared to its desktop version.

❌  You disagree with big price hikes on renewal: NordVPN carries some bargain price options when you sign up for the first time, but things really shoot up when you come to the end of your term.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

NordVPN is the best VPN for Netflix we've tested. With access to every library around the world that we tested it with, compatibility with all types of devices, as well as fast and reliable connections, NordVPN is the easy choice here. Try it for yourself with its 30-day money-back guarantee. 

We suspect that if you carried out a survey of people who use a VPN for Netflix, NordVPN would feature among the most-used services for the purpose. Its name has been synonymous with the software for the last decade or so, and it backs up the ubiquitous marketing with a product that works brilliantly.

The reasons for its top spot are plentiful. Thinking specifically about Netflix for starters, in my NordVPN review I didn’t face any trouble unblocking shows that are exclusively available in U.S., U.K., Canadian, Australian or Japanese catalogs. It also works like a dream for other popular streaming platforms whether they're regional or global, including BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, ITVX, All4, 9Now, and 10Play.

NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs I've ever tested, topping out at at a remarkable 950+ Mbps when using its proprietary NordLynx protocol. This pretty much maxed out our 1 Gbps testing line and, if given the chance, I expect it'd go even faster. Simply put, Nord won't leave you buffering.

On the privacy front, Nord is up there with the very best. You’ll get two kinds of kill switch – which cut your connection in the interest of safety if your VPN connection drops – along with industry-standard encryption, that super-secure NordLynx protocol. This year, Nord passed a no-logs audit for the fourth time, so you can rest assured you data is not being tracked.

Along with having its own private DNS for bypassing DNS-based internet censorship with increased privacy and security, NordVPN boasts a Double VPN (multi-hop) feature, meaning your data is transferred via two VPN servers instead of one, encrypting your data twice.

Those watching on desktop can also make use of Nord's Threat Protection Pro tool. This analyses websites automatically for malware, phishing scams and suspicious activity, giving you peace of mind to stream to your heart's content. 

The mobile app’s interface can be a little fiddly as its map style can make it difficult to find and choose a server with a small screen. However, the Android app features a conventional alphabetical-order country list upon swiping up, so there’s nothing to be worried about if you’re an Android VPN user.  

What's more, you can always get assistance from Nord’s 24/7 live chat facility and there are several quality tutorials in case you're stuck somewhere. I also really admire that NordVPN continues to improve and develop. The company has recently taken its server-country count to over 100. And the previously miserly six simultaneous connections limit has finally been increased to a friendlier 10.

If you want a Netflix VPN that allows you access to almost the entire Netflix global library without sacrificing functionality or speed, NordVPN, with its unblocking capabilities, private DNS and no-logging policy, is a perfect choice. Plus, on the off chance it doesn't work out, you've got a 30-day money-back guarantee to protect you.

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NordVPN test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignA fun design but it’s not the most intuitive⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useOverall easy to use, but the map-like interface is not the handiest⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceSome of the highest speeds for Netflix streaming ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks Netflix and every other streaming app in most locations⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyA verified no-logs policy and top-notch encryption with features like a built-in antivirus⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer support24/7 expert assistance available ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceProvides ample value for the price⭐⭐⭐⭐

Surfshark: the best cheap Netflix VPN

Surfshark on a range of devices

(Image credit: Surfshark)

2. Surfshark

The best cheap Netflix VPN

Unblocks Netflix: Yes (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) | Other services unblocked: Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, ITVX, ITV, C4, 9Now, 10 Play | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | 24/7 customer suppoort: Yes | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited

Fantastic price
Simple app layout
Unbeatable speeds
Good range of unblocked locations
Others have better support
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want a VPN for your entire family: Surfshark’s among the few VPNs that offer unlimited simultaneous connections. 

✔️ You have a need for speed: Surfshark is one of the fastest providers I’ve tested. With speeds over 950Mbps, you get a smooth and lag-free streaming experience. 

✔️ You want the best deal on VPNs: Surfshark arguably offers the very best combination of features and price on the market.  

Avoid if:

❌ You are a Windows user: Windows users miss out on a couple of features of this VPN like a 7-day trial and a few updates – but really this isn’t much of an issue. 

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Surfshark offers the perfect combination of high-end features, low prices, and of course great performance with Netflix – it's a very viable alternative to NordVPN. You’re backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee so if you discover you're not a fan, you won’t be losing out. 

Surfshark is a great VPN for Netflix, and with its exceptional peak speeds of up to 950Mbps and impressive unblocking capabilities, it's not difficult to see why. In my Surfshark review I found that it effectively unblocks not only the U.S. and U.K. but also niche locations like Japan, Canada, and Australia, equaling NordVPN's incredible performance. 

One of the best things about Surfshark is the fact that it has unlimited simultaneous connections. You can run Netflix on as many devices as you like and share your VPN account with your friends and family. 

If you're worried about Netflix being hacked then you can even securely create an account under an alias using Surfshark's Alternative ID feature. This lets you create a random fake email address (and other details) to sign up for the service and keep your personal information private. 

Beyond Netflix, Surfshark is able to access geo-restricted content of BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and many more for when you run out of Netflix shows to watch. With servers in 100 countries, Surfshark adds to the overall streaming experience by effectively blocking cookie pop-ups, ads, and some malware for enhanced privacy and less disturbance when watching content.

Surfshark has had its servers fully audited, which brings peace of mind. The no-logging policy ensures that the VPN does not record your data, connection timestamps, or other online activities. However, it's a little disappointing that the kill switch isn't as strong on the Windows app. In our testing, we managed to make it leak – although this is incredibly unlikely to ever happen in the real world.

Just like NordVPN, it offers polished apps on a huge range of devices like Apple TV, Roku, and even one of the best VPNs for Fire Stick. So, if you're looking for a one of the best cheap VPNs that's useful for streaming and is also secure, fast and easy to use, Surfshark ticks all those boxes.

Overall, Surfshark is a great option for its reliable connection speeds, multiple server locations, and user-friendly interface. Plus, with its affordable pricing plans and a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it out risk-free and see for yourself why it's considered one of the top Netflix VPNs on the market.

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Surfshark test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignCool and intuitive design, ideal for beginners⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useSimple to use, no expertise needed whatsoever⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceThe fastest provider I’ve tested⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks most content streaming platforms effortlessly⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyStrong encryption for safe streaming, but the kill switch needs a few tweaks⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer support24/7 reliable customer support assistance but navigation isn’t the easiest ⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceOne of the best budget VPNs ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

ExpressVPN: Netflix VPN for privacy nuts

ExpressVPN on a range of devices

(Image credit: ExpressVPN)

3. ExpressVPN

A top VPN for privacy that is also very good for Netflix

Unblocks Netflix: Yes (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) | Other services unblocked: Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, ITVX, ITV, C4, 9Now, 10 Play | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | 24/7 customer suppoort: Yes | Simultaneous connections: 8

Loads of streaming devices supported
Unblocks lots of other streaming platforms
Super simple to use
Good connection speeds
Higher price than rivals for similar Netflix performance
Subscribe if:

✔️ Your top priority is privacy and security: ExpressVPN provides multiple layers of privacy protection with features like a Threat Manager and ad and malware blockers, and with a proven no-logs policy, it’s the best privacy option out there.

✔️ You're a K-drama or Asian content fan: ExpressVPN has servers in 27 Asia-Pacific countries alone, which is much higher than most VPNs

✔️ You want a simple interface: ExpressVPN has an extremely simple and user-friendly interface. If you're not tech-savvy, this one's for you. 

Avoid if:

You're on a budget: ExpressVPN is a little on the expensive side, but it’s well worth the price. For the best bargain picks, consider Surfshark or PIA.

You want a fully-fledged privacy suite: despite being one of the most secure VPN services on the market, other providers like NordVPN offer add-ons like antivirus.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

ExpressVPN is great for individuals or small families looking for a secure and stable VPN for Netflix unblocking. It’s premium-priced, but you get the best provider for beginners with 24/7 responsive customer support, a wide server network, and arguably the most well-rounded security money can buy. Test it out with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

ExpressVPN is undeniably one of the most prominent names when it comes to VPN services. While it’s marginally pipped by NordVPN and Surfshark as a Netflix VPN, it’s still an excellent choice. In my last round of testing for my ExpressVPN review, it unblocked Netflix content on most servers from the U.S., U.K., Japan, Canada and Australia – that's a full house.

If you like to stream Netflix on a number of devices, ExpressVPN's apps are available on a huge amount of tech. It's one of the best PC VPNs, best Mac VPNs, a great Android VPN, and even works on routers and smart TVs. And no matter where you use the VPN, you get pretty consistent results. It's super easy to understand the minimalist and simple interface across all the versions, too. 

ExpressVPN’s strongest suit is its security features, including an rock-solid kill switch and excellent encryption. It has a unique MediaStreamer tool that allows you to access blocked content on devices that don't natively support VPN connections with greater flexibility than any regular DNS. But that doesn't stop them iterating their dedicated device apps as well – only in December did it release a brand new Apple TV app and updated Android TV interface.

With over 3,200 servers in 105 different countries, you’ll get access to a wide array of Netflix locations, including a broad range of Asia-Pacific countries. So, if you're looking for a VPN for global access, ExpressVPN is an ideal pick. 

Despite not being the fastest provider when compared to Surfshark and NordVPN, ExpressVPN is still 25 times faster than what you would need for streaming Netflix in 4K.

ExpressVPN offers eight simultaneous connections, which isn't as many as NordVPN's 10. Neither big hotter is as free and easy as Surfshark or PIA, which are unlimited. A simple way of getting round this restriction is to set up a router VPN. Thankfully Express is the best router VPN on the market, and even offers a bespoke router, Aircove, which is available on Amazon.

ExpressVPN is undoubtedly a top choice for Netflix unblocking and with an audited no-logs policy, proprietary security features like the Threat Manager, and great commitment to user privacy, it's an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect their online activities and access geo-restricted content.

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ExpressVPN test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignMinimalistic and clean design⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useBest suited for beginners, but also very configurable for more tech-savvy users⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceNot the fastest but still more than adequate for streaming in HD and 4K ⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks a ton of Netflix locations, but misses out on a couple of niche libraries⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyJam-packed with numerous security features⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportFriendly professionals available 24/7 for assistance ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceNot among the cheapest VPNs but worth every dime⭐⭐⭐

The best of the rest

Proton VPN on a range of devices

(Image credit: ProtonVPN)

4. Proton VPN

Super secure provider brings its A-game to Netflix streaming

Unblocks Netflix: Yes (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) | Other services unblocked: Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, ITVX, ITV, C4, 9Now, 10 Play | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Chromecast | 24/7 customer suppoort: No | Maximum devices supported: 10

Unblocks a bunch of locations
Seriously secure
Useful free version
Free version can't unblock Netflix
Fairly expensive
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want exceptional unblocking: Proton VPN knows its way around unblocking, and it has proved that time and again. 

✔️ You'd like a VPN you can set and forget: Proton VPN comes with an always-on VPN feature – turn it on and it’ll keep you connected at all times without any effort from your end. 

✔️  You need a multitude of simultaneous connections: you can stream on 10 devices simultaneously with one Proton VPN account – that's more than ExpressVPN offers.  

Avoid if:

❌ You want a free Netflix VPN: while Proton VPN’s free version is one of the best around, it doesn’t come with any unblocking abilities.

❌ You need 24/7 support: Proton VPN still doesn't offer round-the-clock live chat support – that now looks sorely lacking when you look around at its main competitors

❌ You’re on a budget: Proton VPN isn’t the most economical option when compared to the likes of Surfshark. 

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Proton VPN is a great option for you if you’re after a privacy-centered VPN with exceptional Netflix unblocking capabilities. While the paid plans look after your streaming requirements, the free plan is also great for general use. However, there are cheaper and more comprehensive options if all you’re looking to do is stream Netflix with a VPN. 

Proton has always been synonymous with watertight internet security, with its VPN no exception. But, as you'll see from my full Proton VPN review, the Swiss provider is now also a match for the best Netflix VPN services, too. Its engineers have seemingly put a huge effort into combatting the streamer's rigorous efforts to counteract VPN usage, and is able to unblock U.K., U.S., Canada, Australia and Japan libraries on most servers. 

It's also excellent for daily use with speedy WireGuard and OpenVPN connections. My most recent speed testing showed that it's right up there among the fastest of VPNs, pipping the likes of NordVPN and ExpressVPN (but still falling short of the electric Surfshark at the top of the podium).

Along with Netflix, you also get access to Amazon Prime, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and many other streaming services. Additionally, you can pay via Bitcoin if you want total anonymity – however, this isn’t a particular USP since a lot of other VPNs also come with that option.

Proton’s Secure Core servers are a unique implementation of multi-hop VPN. By routing your traffic through locations like Switzerland, Sweden, and Iceland before you connect to your chosen destination, you avoid any risk of having your internet traffic compromised – whether that’s simply your Netflix history, or more personal information.

As a privacy and security-focused Netflix VPN, there are few that rival it in terms of anonymity. Proton has a one of the best free VPN plans, but it doesn’t include content unblocking, which is the core of an ideal Netflix VPN. The premium plan delivers stellar unblocking performance and top-class security features. 

Overall, Proton VPN is a solid choice if you’re looking for a Netflix VPN that’s primarily focused on privacy and security, along with being capable of getting you into almost any Netflix library. If you're still on the fence, you have a 30-day money-back guarantee to make sure you don’t spend a dime on the service if it doesn’t resonate with you after testing. 

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Proton VPN test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignIntuitive and dynamic design⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useThe mobile interface is fine but the desktop interface could be a little more user-friendly⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceRidiculously rapid, outpacing some of the very best⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingPaid plans unblock almost every streaming platform with ease ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyReliable and strong security with an audited no-logs policy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportA wide array of technical guides and 24/7 customer support, but no live chat⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceThe free plan is decent for general use but otherwise, the plans are a bit expensive ⭐⭐⭐⭐

PIA on a range of devices

(Image credit: Private Internet Access)

5. Private Internet Access

Another solid choice for Netflix use

Unblocks Netflix: Yes (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) | Other services unblocked: Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, ITVX, ITV, C4, 9Now, 10 Play | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast | 24/7 customer suppoort: Yes | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited

Packed with features
Great security and useful kill switch
Unlimited simultaneous connections,
Connection speeds lagging behind the rest
Subscribe if:

✔️  You want streaming-specific servers: PIA has dedicated streaming servers that are capable of unblocking content no matter where you are.

✔️ You want multiple device access: Like Surfshark, PIA supports unlimited simultaneous connections – much better than both ExpressVPN and NordVPN.

✔️  You demand confidence in terms of privacy of data: With PIA, you can rest assured that your data will not be exposed, as its no-logging policy has been proven twice in court. 

Avoid if:

❌ You’re a beginner: PIA is highly configurable and while that offers more power, a rookie might find it overwhelming. 

 You want faster speeds: PIA isn’t slow, but if you’re after blazing speeds, go for services like Surfshark, Proton VPN or NordVPN. 

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Private Internet Access is an effective and budget-friendly VPN with one of the most expansive server networks in the VPN industry. Although the high customizability can sometimes work against it, it comes with unlimited simultaneous connections and a proven no-logs policy. 

While testing this VPN for my Private Internet Access review, it seriously impressed, unblocking every location we tried on most servers.

PIA has one of the largest server networks, claiming tens of thousand of servers in more than 90 countries. That means you should be able to access all of your favorite content regardless of where you live. 

Plus, you get access to Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more, so you can watch more than just Netflix shows.

With the price dropping to around $2/month on the multiple-year package, it’s super affordable and provides excellent privacy features alongside Netflix streaming support. 

PIA also has one of the best Chrome VPN browser extensions for additional privacy features like blocking ads and trackers. The powerful kill switch works perfectly on both desktop and mobile apps. And it’s the only VPN service that has proved its no-logs claims in court twice.

PIA’s apps, just like ProtonVPN’s, are 100% open source meaning you can inspect them at any time you want. This adds great transparency and credibility to the VPNs. 

Another thing that I love about PIA is that its installation and login process is very straightforward. Plus, thanks to its unlimited simultaneous connections, it's right beside Surfshark as the best value-for-money VPN.

There are caveats that you should note, though – it's not for nothing that there are four other providers above it in this list. For starters, all of the others in this list are just a bit friendlier for beginners. So if the idea of getting started in the world of VPNs is a bit intimidating, the others are probably a better place to begin your adventure.

Plus, if speed is your main concern (perhaps you only ever watch 4K content, or there are a lot of people always using your Wi-Fi at the same time), then PIA's speeds are nowhere near competing with the likes of Surfshark or Proton VPN.

All in all, though, PIA is an affordable option that will more than sufficiently meet your Netflix streaming needs or even VPN needs in general. Plus, it's a serious bargain, so if you're on a budget it's well worth a look. And even if it doesn’t work out for you, you’re protected by the 30-day money-back guarantee. 

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Private Internet Access test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignCustomizable interface but an overwhelming number of options⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useNot ideal for beginners, but it’s a delight for tech enthusiasts⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceVery average – nowehere near as fast at Surfshark or others⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingFast content unblocking with dedicated streaming servers ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyAudited no-log policy and best-in-class configuration⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportHelpful guides and a contact form to reach the support team⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceA superb bargain pick, one of the best⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

How we test the best VPN services

When it comes to recommending a product that users will entrust with quite possibly every byte of their online life, we have to be absolutely sure that our choices are correct, and thoroughly tested.

Unlike some sites, we don't simply reel off a spec sheet and declare the provider with most impressive claims the winner. Instead, we have a dedicated team in-house that gets hands-on with all the providers listed (and more). 

Checking the claims

Every six months, after scouring the website for new claimed features or changes in policy, we sign up to a plan and install it on a range of devices. The Windows app sees the most rigorous testing, and it's here that we'll try to break the kill switch, ensure any leak protection is working correctly, and measure connection speeds.

Testing the apps

The other apps, including the Mac VPN, iPhone VPN, and Android VPN also see comprehensive testing, and we'll check every available setting in every app to make sure it's functioning as promised by the provider.

Digging deep

As we use the apps, if anything appears to be behaving strangely we'll investigate that. We might dig into the source code, or view the contents of its RAM. This general usage stage is also how we make decisions on aesthetics and ease of use – although these are admittedly more subjective.

Ensuring streaming compatibility

Then comes the streaming testing. We'll test each VPN with all the big streaming sites from a number of locations to ensure it's working as claimed. As Netflix is still hugely popular and somewhat troublesome when it comes to VPNs, we test the biggest providers every month to make sure our recommendations are still relevant.

There's a lot more to our testing procedure, too, so if you'd like to learn more, check out our full explainer on how we test VPNs.

^ Back to the top

How to choose the best Netflix VPN

Ability to unblock Netflix

This might be a "duh" moment, but many VPNs are unable to unblock Netflix at all, and more still can only tap into one of two locations. If you're serious about finding the best VPN for Netflix, you'll want a provider that can unblock as many locations as possible.

Great speeds

There are two essential factors to consider when finding the best Netflix VPN, the first of which is the connection speeds a VPN is capable of delivering. If you're browsing at a crawl, you'll find yourself buffering more than you'd expect.

Plenty of server locations

Simply put, you'll want a good number of servers in each country you expect to be using the Netflix library of.

Excellent privacy

Just because you're mostly using your VPN to watch Netflix doesn't mean that your privacy doesn't matter. After all, when you're connected to the VPN, all of your traffic passes through it – so you should have complete trust that it isn't logging what you're up to. 

From our latest testing, we currently consider NordVPN to be the best Netflix VPN on the market for reliability and countries accessed. However, every VPN on this page has earned its spot – all you need to do is pick the one that's the best fit for you.

Using a VPN to circumvent restrictions goes against Netflix's Ts&Cs, and doing so may put your account at risk.

Netflix logo on a mobile phone screen

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

Best Netflix VPN FAQ

Does Netflix allow VPN?

While Netflix won't stop you altogether using its service while you have a VPN connected, it will restrict what content you can access.

Guidance on its Help Center pages says: "While using Netflix through a VPN, we will only show you TV shows and movies we have worldwide rights for, like Squid Game or Stranger Things.

"If you don't see TV shows and movies that are available for your country, you may need to turn your VPN off.

"NOTE: Watching Netflix while using a VPN isn't allowed on an ad-supported plan. Live events on Netflix can't be watched while using a VPN."

That all said, our own testing shows that the best Netflix VPNs are so effective that the streamer isn't able to detect that they're being used. Allowing you to access content libraries that are exclusive to overseas territories.

Why do I need a Netflix VPN?

While some shows may be regular Netflix fare in much of the world, even the powerhouses that are the United States and Canada miss out on some content – and things can even vary drastically between north and south of the border. 

Japanese Netflix has lots of anime you won't find elsewhere, and Netflix in the U.K. still has some classic British shows that aren't available anywhere else. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.

If you travel, a Netflix VPN is a must, as when you're out of your home country it's likely that you won't be able to keep up with the shows you're currently bingeing.

Also, if you feel like you're missing out on all that great Netflix content that you can't get in your home country, it's definitely worth considering investing in a Netflix VPN to expand your viewing. If you fancy learning more, and want to know how to use a VPN, make sure you check out my dedicated guide.

Why is Netflix blocking my VPN?

Not all the content on Netflix is created by Netflix itself – it has to licence these shows for distribution. If a show is already licenced in a certain country by another streaming site, it won't be available on Netflix in this location. 

By blocking VPNs, Netflix is holding up its licencing agreement. When accessing content with a VPN, it's actually Netflix's problem – by 'allowing' you to do it, it's not upholding copyright laws, and you're simply making use of a loophole.

Is it legal to use a VPN for Netflix?

There are a couple of important things to note here. First of all, using a VPN or another kind of proxy service to access Netflix in other countries may violate Netflix's terms of service. That puts your account at risk of being terminated – but that's never actually happened.

Second, Netflix tries to identify and block VPN and proxy servers, with mixed results. That's why many VPNs can't get you watching. The company didn't always do this, but it's now under pressure from Hollywood studios, major TV companies and other content creators to block cross-border streaming. 

We reached out to Netflix for further clarification, and were directed to a company blog post from early 2016.

"We have a ways to go before we can offer people the same films and TV series everywhere...In the meantime, we will continue to respect and enforce content licensing by geographic location... We look forward to offering all of our content everywhere and to consumers being able to enjoy all of Netflix without using a proxy."

Why is Netflix not working with my VPN?

Netflix (and other streaming services, for that matter) are constantly trying to block the IP addresses of VPNs to stop people watching content they're not entitled to.

While the five Netflix VPNs recommended in this guide have proven that they're reliable and can consistently unblock Netflix, there's always the possibility that at one point certain servers will be unavailable.

In this situation, we recommend speaking directly to the VPN's support team. They will know many users prioritise streaming support, and will usually do all they can to get you on a working server as quickly as possible.

Can a Netflix VPN access other streaming services?

If you pick the best Netflix VPN, you may be able to access other streaming services like BBC iPlayer, NBC's Peacock, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video and tons more. However, if there's a particular service you want access to, it's worth checking in advance.

Many services can, but you should check the full review of any provider before purchase, just to make sure that it can do everything that you expect from it.

Disclaimer

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 

1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 

2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. 

We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Mo Harber-Lamond
VPN Editor

Mo is VPN Editor at Tom's Guide. Day-to-day he oversees VPN, privacy, and cybersecurity content, and also undertakes independent testing of VPN services to ensure his recommendations are accurate and up to date. When he's not getting stuck into the nitty-gritty settings of a VPN you've never heard of, you'll find him working on his Peugeot 205 GTi or watching Peep Show instead of finally putting up those shelves.

With contributions from