The Ultimate Guide to Netflix: Everything You Need to Know

In 2017, ahead of its 20th anniversary, Netflix reached a major milestone: over 100 million subscribers worldwide. This impressive figure, drawn from the Q2 2017 earnings report, highlights the platform's rapid growth. With users in over half from the US alone—though 60% of American households (about 125 million total) still hadn't subscribed—Netflix continues to dominate streaming.

This comprehensive guide, crafted by streaming experts with years of hands-on experience, covers everything from availability and pricing to hidden tips. Download our free PDF version to share with friends and family.

Not sure if Netflix is right for you? We'll break it down: how it works, what to watch, device compatibility, and pro tips even longtime users might miss.

Jump to:

• Where is Netflix available?
• How much does Netflix cost?
• What can I watch on Netflix?
  • How to find what to watch on Netflix
• How do Netflix recommendations work?
• What devices can I watch Netflix on?
  • Web browser
  • Windows 10
  • Android / iOS
  • Streaming Media Player
  • Game Console
  • Smart TV
• Is Netflix safe for kids?
• Must-know Netflix tips and tricks
• Does Netflix still send DVDs by mail?
• Can Netflix replace cable TV?

Where is Netflix available?

Netflix is available in nearly every country worldwide, with exceptions like China (due to censorship) and regions such as Crimea, North Korea, and Syria (under US embargoes).

Availability doesn't mean full access to the entire library. Content licensing restricts titles by region, determined by your IP address—US users see US Netflix, UK users see UK Netflix, and so on.

If traveling, you'll access the local library. A VPN can help bypass this, though Netflix actively blocks many. For reliable options, check our guide on best VPNs for Netflix.

How much does Netflix cost?

Netflix offers three tiered subscription plans:

• Basic ($7.99/month)
  • Full access to regional content.
  • Stream on all supported devices.
  • 1 device at a time.
• Standard ($9.99/month)
  • All Basic features.
  • HD streaming (720p/1080p).
  • 2 devices at a time.
• Premium ($11.99/month)
  • All Standard features.
  • 4K Ultra HD.
  • 4 devices at a time.

Plans differ mainly in quality and simultaneous streams—ideal for families. Account sharing is encouraged. New users get a 30-day free trial on any plan.

What can I watch on Netflix?

Lots—but not everything. Netflix spans genres with TV shows, movies, originals, and more. The library rotates monthly as titles expire and new ones (often Netflix Originals) arrive.

Standout Originals include Chef's Table, Reckless, House of Cards, Narcos, and Stranger Things.

Movies range from indies to classics like Braveheart, Good Will Hunting, No Country for Old Men, The Big Short, and The Usual Suspects. Explore our list of the 100 best Netflix movies, including hidden gems: Cook, Silence, Ip Man, Walk with Me, The Regrets.

Comedies: 30 Rock, Friends, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, The Office, Parks and Recreation.

Anime highlights: Attack on Titan, Bleach, Death Note, Naruto, Sword Art Online.

Educational: Brain Games, Cooked, Planet Earth, The Blue Planet, The Hunt.

Documentaries: In Defense of Food, Jiro Dreams of Sushi, Poverty, Inc., Sour Grapes, The Imposter.

Whatever your taste—even niche Slow TV—Netflix has it. See our Netflix and Really Chill: A Quick Guide to Slow TV.

How to find what to watch on Netflix

The US library boasts nearly 4,500 titles. Here's how to navigate efficiently.

Genres

Use the top Genres menu for 20+ categories like Action or Horror. Access varies by device. Check Originals, What's New, or Audio & Subtitles filters.

Search

Search titles, actors (e.g., "John" for cast matches), or genres. Full names refine results. Unavailable streams may offer DVD options (US only).

Genre codes

Unlock hidden genres via browser: https://www.netflix.com/browse/genre/### (replace ### with code). Full list of 1,000+ codes available; or try NetflixCodes for 100 popular ones. See 20 Netflix Secret Codes.

Third-party tools

Tools like JustWatch filter across services by year, ratings (IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes), etc.

How do Netflix recommendations work?

Netflix's algorithm analyzes billions of viewing hours from 100M+ users to personalize suggestions. Dive deeper in our post: How Netflix Knows Exactly What You Want to Watch.

What devices can I watch Netflix on?

Web browser

Works on Windows, Mac, Linux (Chrome best). Max resolutions:

• Chrome: 720p
• Edge: 4K
• Firefox: 720p
• Internet Explorer: 1080p
• Opera: 720p
• Safari: 1080p

See How to Watch Netflix Natively on Linux.

Windows 10

App supports 4K, offline downloads (up to 1080p). Tips in 7 Netflix Tips for Windows Users.

Android / iOS

Max resolutions vary:

• Android (select): 1080p; others: 480p
• iPad (iOS 6+): 480p-1080p Retina
• iPhone: 480p-1080p (6+/7+)
• iPod Touch: 480p-720p

Offline downloads on most modern devices.

Streaming Media Player

Supports Fire TV (4K), Chromecast (1080p/4K Ultra), Nexus (4K), Roku (1080p/4K). Setup guide for Apple TV and Netflix.

Game Console

• Nintendo 3DS/Wii: 480p; Wii U: 1080p
• PS3/4: 1080p; 4 Pro: 4K; Vita: 480p
• Xbox 360: 720p; One: 1080p; One S: 4K

Smart TV

4K on Hisense, LG, Panasonic, Philips, Samsung, Sanyo, Sharp, Sony, Toshiba, Vizio. Older models may be region-locked.

Is Netflix safe for kids?

Generally yes, with safeguards. Core library has mature content, so use:

1. Kids portal: netflix.com/kids—curated for all ages.

2. Parental controls: Per-profile maturity levels or account PIN. Details in Netflix help.

Must-know Netflix tips and tricks

Enhance your experience:

• Multiple profiles: Up to 5, with personal watchlists/recommendations.
• Playback settings: Lock quality to Low/Medium/High.
• Custom subtitles: Adjust style for all content.
• Offline downloads: On Windows/Android/iOS apps. See How to Download Netflix Videos.
• Watch with friends remotely: Use apps from 7 Ways to Watch Netflix with Distant Friends.

More in How to Make Netflix Better and Solve Netflix Problems.

Does Netflix still send DVDs by mail?

Yes, via separate US-only plans:

• Incoming (DVD $4.99/mo, Blu-ray $5.99): 1 disc, 2/month
• Standard (DVD $7.99, Blu-ray $9.99): 1 disc, unlimited
• Premier (DVD $11.99, Blu-ray $14.99): 2 discs, unlimited

Free shipping, no due dates, 2-day delivery. Free trials available.

Can Netflix replace cable TV?

It can save big—$103/mo cable vs. $11.99 Premium—but consider:

• Internet: Needs fast/stable connection.
• Data caps: 0.3-7GB/hour; 36-840GB/mo for 4hrs/day.
• No live TV: No news/sports episodes on-air.

Pair with Hulu or others. Read 7 Cord-Cutting Mistakes, 10 Questions Before Canceling Cable, 8 Streaming Apps, 10 Niche Services. See Reduce Household Expenses.

What else is there to know?

You now know Netflix inside out—from global reach to originals. Share tips or questions in comments!