Best VPNs for Netflix: Proven Options That Still Work After Testing

In January 2016, Netflix launched a major crackdown on VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), making it against their terms of service to access region-locked content from other countries. Despite predictions it would fail, Netflix's blocks have held strong.

Connecting via most VPNs now triggers an instant error:

That said, based on our rigorous, hands-on testing, several premium VPNs consistently bypass these blocks. As VPN experts with years of experience reviewing streaming performance, we've identified the top performers and share our recommendations below.

Why Netflix Blocks VPNs—And Why It's Not Always Fair

Netflix's policy stems from licensing agreements. Studios sell streaming rights to different platforms by region—for instance, Amazon Prime might hold Doctor Strange rights in your country, while Netflix owns them in Freedomonia. Using a VPN to access Freedomonia's Netflix violates that deal.

Netflix is justified here. However, their broad VPN ban also affects legitimate users, like U.S. subscribers traveling to Thailand who want their home library. Instead, they're forced to Thailand's catalog—not what they paid for.

The solution? A reliable VPN with U.S. servers restores access seamlessly.

Skip Free VPNs: Opt for Premium for Reliable Netflix Access

Free VPNs and smartDNS services fail against Netflix's aggressive blocks. We've tested them all—none reliably unblock content, and any short-term success fades quickly.

Premium VPNs shine with unlimited bandwidth, fast speeds, and dedicated teams updating servers. Here's our tested list:

1. ExpressVPN
2. StrongVPN
3. PrivateVPN
4. CyberGhost
5. TorGuard
6. NordVPN
7. VyprVPN
8. Buffered VPN
9. PureVPN
10. HotSpot Shield Premium

1. ExpressVPN: Top Pick for Netflix US

For U.S. Netflix access worldwide, ExpressVPN excels. In our year-long tests across devices, it never failed.

• Setup: Intuitive apps for all platforms, including Linux and routers for whole-home protection.
• Performance: Servers rotate frequently to evade detection; flawless 1080p streaming with instant loads and no buffering on skips/rewinds.
• Netflix Regions: Reliable for US; occasional success in Canada and others, but US is consistent.
• Pricing: $12.95/month or $8.32/month annually. Exclusive MakeUseOf deal: 3 free months + 1 year at $6.67/month via this link.

2. StrongVPN: Great for US, UK, and Canada

StrongVPN has reliably dodged blocks since day one, earning loyal fans, especially in the UK.

• Setup: Apps for Windows, macOS, iOS; Android needs manual config. Detailed guides help, though less plug-and-play than rivals.
• Performance: Solid 1080p on US/UK servers; Canada handles 720p well.
• Netflix Regions: US, UK, Canada—edges out ExpressVPN here.
• Pricing: $10/month or $70/year; includes StrongDNS alternative.

3. PrivateVPN: Most Countries Supported

Note: PrivateVPN provided a review account.

Ideal for global Netflix access; topped our multi-region tests.

• Setup: Apps for major platforms; manual for others. Clear browser cache first.
• Performance: Excellent 1080p on recommended servers (listed by provider).
• Netflix Regions: US, Canada, UK, France, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands.
• Pricing: $7.67/month or $50.40/year (sale pricing).

4. CyberGhost: Easiest for Mobile

Note: CyberGhost provided a review account.

Perfect for phone streaming with one-tap setup.

• Setup: Select "Secure Streaming" > Netflix; remembers login.
• Performance: Flawless on stable Wi-Fi; solid on 4G (ExpressVPN edges it).
• Netflix Regions: US only.
• Pricing: 7-day free trial; $11.99/month. MakeUseOf deal: 6 months at $4.99/month or 18 at $2.75/month.

CyberGhost also supports Amazon Prime, HBO GO, BBC iPlayer (untested here).

5. TorGuard: Most Reliable with Dedicated IPs

Dedicated IPs make it hardest for Netflix to detect—ideal for long-term use.

• Setup: Complex (VPN + dedicated IP config), but guides available.
• Performance: Best in tests: no lag, fast loads, full quality.
• Netflix Regions: All tested countries.
• Pricing: $10/month VPN + $8/month IP = $18/month.

Other Working VPNs for Netflix

These handled US Netflix but weren't flawless:

• NordVPN: Affordable long-term; good HD but avoid 4K due to buffering.
• VyprVPN & Buffered VPN: Strong US alternatives at ~$13/month (Vypr cheaper annually).
• PureVPN: Works now, but past privacy issues (e.g., FBI cooperation).
• HotSpot Shield Premium: Initial success faded after a week.

VPNs to Avoid

We tested popular alternatives—skip those failing on access, speed, quick recovery, or support.

Which VPN Is Best for Netflix?

ExpressVPN for US anywhere; PrivateVPN for max libraries. All listed options deliver.

This should fix your VPN-Netflix woes. For more, check common Netflix fixes.