Best VPN for Netflix in 2026

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably noticed that Netflix content looks very different depending on where you’re watching from, which means with the right tools, you don’t have to be limited to your local options.

Whether you want to watch your favorite shows from home while you travel abroad, or are just looking to expand your viewing options, a good virtual private network (VPN) is just the tool you need.

A VPN makes it easy to access more content while keeping your connection fast and secure, but when you’re trying to find the best VPN for Netflix, it quickly becomes clear that only a handful of services really deliver.

In a hurry? Here are 5 best VPNs for Netflix

Take a quick look at my top picks for the best VPN for Netflix listed below:

Key takeaways

1. Netflix offers different content in different countries.
2. With a quality VPN, you can get a new IP address and access Netflix libraries all over the world.
3. A good VPN will keep you safe from hackers and snoops, even if you’re streaming Netflix on public Wi-Fi.
4. Not every VPN has what it takes to provide reliable, safe, and uninterrupted access to Netflix libraries worldwide.
5. The best Netflix VPNs are ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost, and Proton VPN.

5 best VPNs for Netflix

Here’s everything you need to know about my top 5 picks for the best Netflix VPNs.

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN makes streaming Netflix easy. I know I can count on it to reliably unblock Netflix, plus, it’s fast, and the apps are easy to use, even for beginners.

Features: I love the built-in ad-blocking, malware protection, and parental controls that make my Netflix viewing even more secure. The split tunneling makes it easy for me to multitask, while the smart DNS means I can stream Netflix from devices that don’t support VPN apps. With 3,000+ server locations in 105 countries, I’ve got broad access to international Netflix libraries.

Speed: Any VPN connection will slow your speeds, but ExpressVPN keeps it to a minimum, so it won’t affect performance. During my real-world speed tests, Express held on to 90% or better of its baseline speed.

Privacy and security: You’re kept safe watching Netflix, even on public Wi-Fi, with ExpressVPN’s military-grade encryption, independently verified no-logs policy, and reliable leak protection.

Performance: ExpressVPN does more than unblock Netflix libraries from around the world. Its fast speeds and stable connections support a smooth viewing experience. That’s why it’s a favorite for streamers, gamers, and torrenters alike.

Streaming: If you like streaming as much as I do, you probably don’t want to limit yourself to Netflix. ExpressVPN has a proven track record for unblocking Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Apple TV, Disney+, and all of the popular streaming services.

Compatibility: ExpressVPN has apps for everything from smartphones and PCs to Samsung Smart TVs and Fire TV. Best of all, they are super easy to use, even for beginners. Plus, you get 10, 12, or 14 simultaneous connections, depending on which VPN subscription you choose. Or you can set it up on your VPN router and cover all your devices at once.

Pricing: For the best pricing, sign up for the 2-year basic plan at $2.44 per month. You’ll have 30 days to request a refund if it’s not for you, and 24/7 live chat support is available if you need help along the way.

2. NordVPN

NordVPN is the fastest Netflix VPN I’ve tested, and its great selection of advanced features makes it one of the best and most versatile streaming VPNs around.

Features: This VPN has a feature to meet all my needs. It comes with ad blocking, malware protection, smart DNS, split tunneling, double VPN, dedicated IP addresses, dark web monitoring, and more. It’s also got 185+ server locations with over 8,000 servers to choose from, perfect for Netflix streaming.

Speed: NordVPN sets the bar when it comes to speed, maintaining 95% or better of baseline performance, making it the fastest VPNs I’ve found to date.

Privacy and security: If you’re looking for a secure VPN connection, Nord’s got you covered with its military-grade encryption, verified no logs policy, and strong leak protection, so you can stream Netflix on public Wi-Fi without worrying about hackers.

Performance: I’ve used Nord for everything from streaming and torrenting to gaming and browsing without any issues. On occasion, it takes a few extra seconds to establish a connection, but once that’s done, you’re good to go.

Streaming: You can expect a smooth streaming experience and easy access to geo-restricted streaming libraries across the globe on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Apple TV, and more!

Compatibility: Nord has apps for mobile devices, smart TVs, Fire TV, laptops, desktops, and more. The interface is a little busier than ExpressVPN, but it’s usually not hard for newbies to figure out. Each VPN subscription comes with 10 simultaneous device connections, or you can use a VPN router and cover your whole household at once.

Pricing: At $3.39/month for the basic 2-year plan, Nord is a good value. You can try it out risk-free for 30 days, and the 24/7 live chat support will give you all the help you need to get started.

3. Surfshark

This is my number one recommendation for anyone looking for a great budget option. Surshark comes with many of the features you get with a premium VPN provider at a fraction of the cost, and you can count on it for accessing international Netflix libraries.

Speed: During testing, Surfshark held on to about 80% or better of its baseline speed, which means it’s not the fastest VPN on the market, but it’s still got enough speed for streaming Netflix without a problem.

Privacy and security: When you use Surfshark, your internet connection is protected with a verified no-logs policy, strong leak protection, and military-level encryption, leaving you no need to worry about hackers while streaming Netflix on public Wi-Fi.

Performance: Overall, Surfshark performs reliably across a wide range of online activities, including streaming, gaming, and torrenting. On occasion, you may get a little buffering while streaming Netflix, but switching servers usually takes care of the problem quickly.

Streaming: You can use Surfshark to access multiple Netflix libraries as well as other streaming services like Apple TV, Amazon Video, Disney+, Hulu, YouTube TV, and others.

Compatibility: You can access Netflix content from around the world on your smart TV, Fire TV, mobile devices, laptops, and desktops using Surfshark’s intuitively designed apps. Best of all, you get unlimited simultaneous connections, so your whole family can benefit for one low cost.

Pricing: With pricing starting at just $1.99 per month, Surfshark is a great deal. Try it out risk-free for 30 days. It comes with 24/7 live chat support, so help is available whenever you need!

4. CyberGhost

If you’re not looking for a ton of features, but want a reliable, cheap, easy-to-use VPN, CyberGhost is a solid choice.

Features: You get a few basic features with CyberGhost, including specialized servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. You also get ad blocking, split tunneling, and an option for a dedicated IP. It has a network of over 11,500 servers in 100 countries, so you can access Netflix regions all over the world.

Speed: On nearby servers, CyberGhost holds on to 85% or better of baseline speed, but it’s much more variable on long-distance connections, with speed drops ranging between 30-65%. Despite the inconsistency, it’s generally fast enough for streaming Netflix, especially when connecting locally, using the WireGuard protocol, and sticking with their dedicated streaming servers.

Privacy and security: Despite the low price, you still get top-notch security features, including a verified no-logs policy, military-grade encryption, and strong leak protection.

Performance: For the best performance, use the WireGuard protocol, dedicated streaming servers, and nearby server locations. The 24/7 live chat support can help you find the fastest internet connection in any region.

Streaming: In addition to accessing Netflix titles from all over the world, CyberGhost can unblock all of the major streaming services, including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, and more.

Compatibility: Set up is easy on just about any device, including smart TVs, Fire TV, mobile devices, PCs, and more. It allows for 7 simultaneous connections, which is fewer than the competing VPN providers, but still plenty for most users.

Pricing: The 2-year package comes out to $2.19 per month, and you’ve got 30-days to cancel and get your money back, so there’s no big risk in giving it a try.

5. Proton VPN

The best Netflix VPN with a free plan is Proton VPN. It’s got what it takes to keep you safe online, and the unlimited data means you can watch as much as you want, without having to worry about hitting your limits.

Features: The free plan doesn’t come with a lot of bells and whistles, but it does include unlimited data and servers in 5 different countries. Paid users also get ad, tracker, and malware blocking, and a choice of over 15,000 servers in 120+ countries.

Speed: Free users can expect speed drops ranging between 10-30%, while paid users fare better at 5-25% speed drops. The free servers tend to get congested and run on the slower side more often, but Proton’s VPN accelerator can help keep things moving.

Privacy and security: What I love about Proton’s free VPN option is that you get the same premium security features that you get with the paid plan, including a verified no-logs policy, military-grade encryption, and strong leak protection.

Performance: You can expect a strong performance with the paid plan for streaming, gaming, and torrenting, while the free plan is designed for lower bandwidth activities like browsing.

Streaming: Free users only have access to 5 server locations, and it’s not always able to get past Netflix blocks, but it’s worth giving it a try; you’ve got nothing to lose. Paid users can unblock worldwide content libraries on Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and lots more.

Compatibility: There are Proton VPN apps for smartphones, smart TVs, Fire TV, tablets, PCs, and more. Paid subscriptions allow you to connect 10 devices at once.

Pricing: If you decide to opt for the paid plan, the best deal is to sign up for 2-years of the VPN plus plan at $2.99/month. Try it out for 30 days, and if you aren’t satisfied, cancel and get a full refund.

Why use a VPN for Netflix

Here’s how using a quality VPN for Netflix can give you a better Netflix streaming experience.

• Watch your favorite Netflix shows from anywhere. Netflix has different content libraries in different countries, which means you may not be able to keep up with your favorite shows while you’re travelling abroad. With the right VPN, you can connect to a VPN server in your home country and keep watching as if you’ve never left.
• Unblock Netflix libraries worldwide. A decent Netflix VPN can really expand your viewing options. So let’s say it’s date night, and you want to watch the feel-good musical rom-com Mamma Mia, but it’s not available on your local US Netflix library. Just use your VPN to connect to a Canadian server before you log onto Netflix. That will give you a new VPN IP address in Canada, and Mamma Mia will show up in your search.
• Privacy and security. A VPN doesn’t just unblock Netflix; it also keeps you safe online, even when you’re using public Wi-Fi, where you’re most vulnerable. It does this by sending all of your data through an encrypted tunnel, so you’re safe from hackers and snoops.
• Avoid ISP throttling. If you’re using a lot of data streaming, your internet service provider (ISP) may throttle your connection, which can lead to buffering or dropped connections while you’re watching Netflix. Since a good VPN sends all of your data through an encrypted tunnel, your ISP can’t see how much data you are using and will have no reason to throttle your connection.

How we picked the best VPNs for Netflix

Here’s how I tested VPNs for Netflix:

• Unblocking capability. Not every VPN can get past the Netflix VPN blocks. I tried out dozens of VPNs and selected those that could reliably get the job done.
• Speed. I conducted real-world speed tests and selected VPNs that were fast enough for smooth and uninterrupted streaming.
• Server network. I prioritized VPNs with a broad server network so you can have the best access to Netflix libraries all over the world.
• Privacy and security. Your online security is important to me, which is why I selected VPNs with a verified no-logs policy, military-grade encryption, and strong leak protection to keep you safe, even on public Wi-Fi.
• Compatibility. I selected VPNs with easy-to-use apps for smart TVs, smartphones, streaming boxes, and more. I also prioritized VPNs that let you connect multiple devices at once, so you can cover your whole household on one account.
• Customer support. I want to be sure using a VPN is a good experience for you, so I gave preference to VPN providers that offer great customer service and a money-back guarantee.

How to set up a VPN for Netflix 

Ready to get started? Here’s how to set up your VPN for Netflix:

1. Purchase a subscription to a reliable Netflix VPN. My favorite is ExpressVPN.
2. Download and install the VPN app onto your device.
3. Open the app and click connect.
4. Go to Netflix, sign in to your account, and start watching!

How to change Netflix region on your device 

Follow these simple steps to change your Netflix region on your device.

1. Subscribe to a reputable VPN service. I like using ExpressVPN.
2. Download and install the app onto your device.
3. Use the VPN to connect to your desired Netflix region by selecting a country from the dropdown menu.
4. Load Netflix and enjoy all the movies and TV titles available in your chosen region.

How to access US Netflix with a VPN

Want to access the US Netflix library? Here’s how:

1. Select a quality Netflix VPN, like ExpressVPN, and subscribe.
2. Download and install the app onto your device.
3. Open the app and connect to a US server.
4. Open your Netflix app and sign in for full access to US Netflix.

How to get a Netflix subscription for a cheaper price

Netflix prices can vary a lot by country. For example, the pricing in Turkey starts at around $3.00/month, while in the US, it’s about $8.00/month, so signing up for Netflix in the cheapest region, you can save quite a bit of cash. If you want to give it a try, here’s what you need to do:

1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN service. My personal favorite is ExpressVPN.
2. Install the VPN app on your device.
3. Open the app and connect to a server in Turkey.
4. You will need a Turkish phone number to sign up, which you can get at smscodes.io.
5. You also need a Turkish payment method, such as a Turkish Netflix gift card or digital wallet.
6. Go to the Netflix website and subscribe using your Turkish phone number and payment method.

VPN not working with Netflix: Troubleshooting 

If your VPN isn’t working with Netflix, don’t worry. Streaming platforms are constantly updating their systems to detect VPN traffic, so sometimes you just need to make a few adjustments. Here are some simple tricks to get things working smoothly:

• Switch servers. The one you are on may be a known VPN server that is blocked by Netflix.
• Clear your cookies and cache. Your browsing history may be giving away your true location.
• Change devices. Your device may be associated with a specific location.
• Disable location services on your device. If your VPN server location and GPS location services don’t match up, you will get blocked.
• Sign out of your Netflix account and then log back in. Netflix may be holding on to your location from your last login.
• Ask your VPN’s customer support team for help. They will be able to help you troubleshoot why you can’t access Netflix.

VPNs that don’t work with Netflix 

I tested a range of well‑known VPNs to see whether they could reliably unblock Netflix, and a few simply couldn’t make it work.

• TunnelBear. Despite its popularity, in my testing, many of the TunnelBear servers were detected and blocked, making it unreliable for accessing different Netflix libraries.
• Mullvad. This VPN was built for privacy, not streaming. Their servers get blocked often, so you can’t count on it for accessing major libraries like the US and UK.
• Hola. Hola failed to unblock Netflix during testing and has also been surrounded by controversy, making it a risky choice for privacy and streaming alike.

Can I use a free VPN to change Netflix regions?

After digging into a ton of options, I still haven’t come across a truly great free VPN for Netflix. The one exception worth mentioning is Proton VPN. The speeds are decent and, in some cases, it can even access Netflix. Plus, its privacy and security features are outstanding, so there’s no risk in giving it a try. The catch is that the free plan only offers servers in about five countries, which really limits how much international content you can actually explore.

Most free VPNs just aren’t very dependable for unlocking Netflix libraries. Streaming platforms like Netflix are constantly improving their detection systems, and most free services simply can’t keep up. On top of that, they usually have data limits, slower speeds, or overcrowded servers, which can lead to buffering or dropped connections while you watch.

Security is another place where free VPN companies tend to fall short. Many free services have weaker protections, and a few even make money by collecting and selling browsing data. That obviously isn’t ideal if you’re trying to stay safe online.

If you want something that works consistently with Netflix and still protects your privacy, you’re better off going with a solid paid option from a trusted Netflix VPN.

FAQ

Does Netflix allow VPNs?

Yes. Netflix allows VPNs. It does not, however, permit VPN usage for bypassing regional restrictions.

Is it legal to use a VPN to watch Netflix?

Yes. It is legal to use a VPN to watch Netflix.

Does Netflix ban you for VPN use?

No. Netflix does not ban you for VPN use. Netflix blocks VPNs if it detects you are using one to bypass geo-restrictions or if you are using a VPN to try to lower your subscription costs.

Does Netflix know if I use a VPN?

Netflix can’t see the VPN software itself, but it can often recognize the network patterns that VPNs create. That’s why it’s important to use a premium VPN service that can avoid any Netflix VPN detection software.

Can a VPN really hide my IP address?

Yes. A VPN can hide your true IP address and replace it with a VPN IP address, but not every VPN provider can get the job done reliably. That’s why your VPN choice matters.

Which country has the best Netflix?

The US and the UK offer many of the most popular titles, while Iceland has the largest selection of Netflix content overall. If you’re an anime fan, you’ll want to check out the Japanese library.

Can I get around Netflix geo-blocks?

You can! Netflix libraries change depending on where you’re located, licensing agreements, and local regulations. By using a VPN, you can connect to a server in another country, masking your real IP address and making it look like you’re somewhere else, allowing you to access Netflix from that region.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Netflix VPN mostly comes down to finding one that works consistently, keeps your speeds high, and is simple to use, while keeping your connection private.

If you want the fastest and most reliable performance, I keep coming back to ExpressVPN and NordVPN. If price matters more, Surfshark and CyberGhost offer excellent value. And if you’d rather try something free first, Proton VPN is a solid place to start.

With the right VPN, it’s easy to broaden your Netflix access and enjoy a much better streaming experience.