Best Free VPNs for Netflix in 2024

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can provide access to Netflix content from back home when you’re traveling internationally or going the ex-pat route in another country. It does this by replacing your regular IP address with a local IP address from whichever country you connect to. This will make you appear to be located in that country, allowing you to access the location-specific Netflix content.

In addition, a VPN encrypts your internet connection, keeping the prying eyes of Internet Service Providers, governments, and hackers from monitoring or stealing your precious personal information.

Can a Free VPN Give Me Access to Netflix?

Unfortunately, because Netflix is adept at detecting VPN-provided IP addresses, there are only a few VPNs out there that can reliably unblock access to international Netflix content.

Truly free VPNs don’t have the resources to continue replacing IP addresses as they’re blocked, so I can’t recommend them for unblocking Netflix. However, the top VPN service providers on my recommendation list offer 30- to 45-day money-back guarantees, giving you a “free” trial of their services.

In this article, I’ll let you in on which VPNs are the best for accessing Netflix in other countries. In addition, I’ll explain the facts about why truly free VPNs aren’t a good idea for accessing Netflix or doing anything else online.

See also: How to Change Netflix Region or Country

How to Use a VPN to Access Netflix

To gain access to international Netflix content by using a VPN, follow the simple steps below.

1. Subscribe to your VPN provider of choice (I recommend NordVPN).
2. Install the provider’s app(s) onto your device(s). You can also install a browser extension (if available) onto your favorite browser if you’d prefer. (CyberGhost offers free browser extensions.)
3. Log into the VPN.
4. Select a VPN server in the country where you’d like to access the Netflix content and connect to it.
5. Enjoy your new access to international Netflix content!

WANT TO TRY A TOP VPN RISK-FREE?

All of the top VPN providers on my list offer 30- to 45-day money-back guarantees of their services. This allows you to try out a VPN risk-free, see if you like it for watching Netflix from your home country, and get a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

Best “Free” VPNs for Netflix

I’ve thoroughly vetted many VPN providers, finding out how well they access international video streaming services, including Netflix. Here’s a short summary (more detailed reviews can be found below this list) about the top VPN providers for the job.

My best “free” VPNs for Netflix:

1. NordVPN: Top-ranked VPN for Netflix. This top-ranked provider offers thousands of servers across roughly 60 countries, offering excellent access to Netflix content all over the globe. A 30-day money-back guarantee means you can try this provider without risk.
2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN provider. Surfshark is a budget-priced provider that offers unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you and your family to watch international Netflix streams on different devices. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
3. ExpressVPN: Premium Netflix VPN. Although expensive, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring you can experience its top-notch services risk-free. The provider’s speeds ensure you can watch Netflix TV shows and movies in HD or 4K.
4. CyberGhost: Great choice for new users. CyberGhost’s 45-day money-back guarantee gives you extra time to try out its easy-to-use apps and excellent ability to unblock Netflix. The provider’s massive global server network gives you access to Netflix content libraries around the world.
5. Private Internet Access: Reliable access to Netflix. PIA delivers reliable access to geo-controlled international content like Netflix. Well-encrypted connections keep your online activities undercover.
6. PrivateVPN: Small but powerful VPN. This VPN sports an admittedly small network, yet it offers reliable and protected access to Netflix. The provider offers comprehensive security and privacy protection.

When deciding upon which VPN providers to recommend, I evaluated these factors:

• Risk-free money-back guarantee
• Ability to access Netflix and other streaming services
• Strong encryption and security measures
• Comprehensive privacy protections
• Speedy connections with unlimited bandwidth and no data caps
• A large, global network of servers
• Responsive customer support

For more information about the criteria I used, take a look at the in-depth methodology testing section further down this article.

These are my top six “free” VPN providers for viewing Netflix from almost anywhere.

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024

NordVPN is your best bet for watching Netflix from almost anywhere, even in China.

NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee (for all subscription lengths) makes it an excellent option for users looking to get top-notch VPN service without risk.

The provider has an unmatched ability to unblock Netflix all over the world, in addition to Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more.

NordVPN offers government-grade AES 256-bit encryption, automatic kill switch protection, IP/DNS leak prevention, and malware and ad blocking. Choosing an obfuscated server will allow you to obscure the fact that you’re using a VPN. The provider’s NordLynx connection protocol (based on the WireGuard protocol) is optimized for performance and increased protection.

NordVPN never saves any logs of your online activities and allows you to pay with Bitcoin if you so choose. Plus, the provider runs its servers 100% completely from RAM, meaning there is no data being written to a physical hard drive. All data is wiped from the server whenever it is rebooted. Plus, NordVPN’s owned-and-operated servers mean outside contractors no longer have access to your personal information.

NordVPN’s connection speeds proved to be some of the fastest in my most recent round of speed tests, making them extraordinarily fast. You can stream in HD or 4K without a problem when using NordVPN. You’ll get unlimited bandwidth and not have to worry about data caps with this provider.

NordVPN offers approximately 5,500 servers in nearly 60 countries, giving you plenty of access to Netflix all over the world.

Apps are available for iOS, macOS (with native M1/M2 Mac support), Windows, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire, and Android TV devices. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions make the scene, as does comprehensive support for routers. six simultaneous connections are allowed.

The provider also offers a SmartDNS service that allows you to watch international Netflix streams on devices such as gaming consoles, smart TVs, and other set-top boxes. Just keep in mind that the service doesn’t encrypt your internet connection like the full-blown VPN service does.

When it comes to customer support, NordVPN has your back. Your questions can be immediately answered when you take advantage of its 24/7 live chat, and email support and a searchable support library are also available.

THE BEST “FREE” VPN FOR NETFLIX:NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee gives you plenty of time to try out its excellent service, which includes ultra-fast connection speeds, wide global server coverage, comprehensive app support, and thorough security and privacy protections.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark is a low-priced VPN option, so you won’t have to pay much money upfront to take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark easily unblocks Netflix in many countries around the world, ensuring you can watch all of the international Netflix shows you have your eye on.

Security protections include banking-level AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. Ad and tracker blocking, as well as malware and phishing protection, increase your security.

In certain countries, a “MultiHop” option allows you to route your internet connection through two VPN servers instead of one, adding to your security and anonymity.

Surfshark allows you to pay with many different types of cryptocurrency and also never saves any logs of your online activities.

The provider doesn’t disappoint in regards to connection speed, as it provided the fastest download speeds in my most recent rounds of testing. You’ll get unlimited bandwidth and never suffer data caps with this provider.

Although its global server network used to be small, Surfshark now offers 3,200+ servers in 95+ countries, giving you a wide range of options. (The provider offers access to 30+ Netflix libraries around the globe.)

Apps from the provider are available for Windows, macOS (with native support for M1 Macs), Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire, and Android TV device platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available, and there’s plenty of support for different makes and models of routers.

With this provider, you can connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously, making it an excellent option if you have a lot of people or devices to protect and connect at once.

Customer support is always available in the form of 24/7 live chat, searchable support documents and an FAQ section, and a support contact form.

BEST FOR THE BUDGET-MINDED:Surfshark offers a low-priced service that you can try out for 30 days, and if you aren’t satisfied, you can get a full refund. The provider offers unlimited simultaneous connections, high-speed servers, strong encryption, and satisfying privacy protection.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is expensive, but it does give you 30 days to try out the high-quality service with the ability to get a full refund.

ExpressVPN is well known for its ability to unblock Netflix and other streaming services around the globe, so you’ll have no problem accessing whichever Netflix content library you have your eye on.

ExpressVPN doesn’t mess around when it comes to security, providing government-grade AES 256-bit encryption, as well as IP/DNS leak and automatic kill switch protections. The provider’s Lightway connection protocol offers improved security and performance.

Bitcoin is accepted in return for a subscription, and the provider never records any usage logs. Also, the provider’s proprietary “TrustedServer” technology runs all operations from RAM, writing no data to a physical hard drive. This means all information is wiped upon every server reboot.

ExpressVPN scored as the fastest VPN provider in my most recent testing, making it possible to stream in HD or 4K. No data caps or bandwidth limitations ever ruin the fun.

ExpressVPN has one of the widest global server networks available, comprising 3,000+ servers in over 90 countries, giving you plenty of access to Netflix content all across the globe.

App support is available for Windows, iOS, macOS (with native Apple Silicon support), Linux, Android, Amazon Fire, Android TV, and Chromebook device platforms. You can use a browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and even Edge, and there’s plenty of router support. The provider recently updated its router features, offering an improved user interface, as well as improved performance.

Only five simultaneous connections are allowed on one account.

ExpressVPN’s “MediaStreamer” DNS service is also available, allowing you to watch international video streaming content on devices incompatible with VPN apps, such as game consoles, smart TVs, and other set-top boxes. However, just be warned that the service doesn’t offer encryption for your connection.

Customer support offerings include always-available live chat, email support, a trouble ticket submission system, and a searchable troubleshooting and support library.

RELIABLE “FREE” VPN:ExpressVPN’s service comes at a high price, but the service will be well worth it for some users. A 30-day money-back guarantee covers you in case you change your mind. The provider’s speeds are more than impressive, and its global server coverage is extensive.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost only offers 14 days to get a refund for a 1-month subscription, but users get a full 45 days if they opt for a 1-year, 2-year or 3-year subscription.

The provider has no problem unblocking Netflix and some other streaming services, which will put you at ease when it comes to connecting to and watching your favorite TV shows and movies.

Military-grade AES 256-bit encryption and IP/DNS leak prevention, as well as ad and malware blocking, and the ability to force websites to use HTTPS if available, are all at hand with this provider. A Bitcoin payment option is available, and the provider follows a strict no-logs policy.

CyberGhost’s connection speeds are nothing to sneeze at, making it possible to watch Netflix in high definition if that’s how you roll. No data caps or bandwidth limitations to worry about here.

CyberGhost’s global server coverage is extra-large, including 8,700+ servers in 90+ countries. Streaming-optimized servers are available.

Easy-to-use apps are available for Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, Amazon Fire, and Android TV devices. Router support is available, too, and you can connect up to seven devices concurrently on one set of login credentials.

CyberGhost also offers free Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. However, their coverage is small, only allowing connections to eight servers in four countries. This means it’s unlikely they’ll be able to unblock Netflix. However, their free-ness is enticing.

In addition, the provider offers a password manager, antivirus protection, a privacy guard feature that allows you to control how much of your information Microsoft can access, and a security updater to scan your machine for outdated and vulnerable apps. Also, CyberGhost’s ID Guard feature alerts you when your email address is exposed in a data breach.

The VPN service provider’s customer support comes in three forms: 24/7 live support chat, a trouble ticket tracking system, and an easy-to-search knowledge base.

BEST VPN FOR NEWBIES:CyberGhost unblocks Netflix with ease, and its streaming-optimized servers enhance your experience. Its easy-to-use apps make it excellent for beginner VPN users. 14 days for a month-long subscription isn’t much, but 45 days for a 1-year or longer subscription is extensive.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

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5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) has an above-average global server network with more than 3,300 servers based in over 80 countries. That network provides reliable access to Netflix and other streaming services around the globe.

The provider’s native app support includes options for Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are available to protect your browsing. The provider’s compatibility with numerous router makes and models keeps all of your connected devices protected.

Up to 10 devices can be connected at once on a single set of login credentials.

PIA’s download speeds, while definitely not the fastest around, can easily handle most popular online activities, including streaming video, gaming, and other online pastimes. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to worry about here.

Its customer connections are protected by banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and a kill switch. Ads, trackers, malware, and dangerous websites are all blocked by the provider.

PIA servers run user log free, and the provider accepts Bitcoin as subscription payment, protecting both your usage and payment privacy. (Using a disposable email address to subscribe when using Bitcoin will add an additional layer of payment anonymity.)

The PIA customer support includes live support chat, a trouble ticket form, and a searchable support library.

PROVIDES RELIABLE ACCESS TO NETFLIX:The Private Internet Access global server network provides well-protected and reliable access to Netflix and other streamers in many areas of the globe. Fast connections ensure that your streaming binges are enjoyable. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN may have a small global server network when compared to other VPNs on this list, but its network of just over 200 servers spread among 60+ countries provides reliable access to Netflix and other geo-fenced content.

All of those servers provide connections that are easily fast enough to stream both HD and 4K content without extended buffering or frustrating “catch up” periods in the middle of the action. Those fast connections are also great for online gaming and file-sharing.

All PrivateVPN connections are protected by military-grade encryption, IP and DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. There are no bandwidth limitations or data caps.

PrivateVPN does a top-notch job of protecting your payment and usage privacy, thanks to its acceptance of Bitcoin as subscription payment and not recording your online antics while connected to their network of servers.

Native app support is limited, with app support available only for the big four device platforms (Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android). However, router compatibility is available, allowing users to protect the rest of their connected devices. Browser extensions unfortunately do not make an appearance here.

The provider allows six concurrent connections by a single user.

Live chat, email, and an FAQ page are all included in PrivateVPN’s customer support options.

SECURELY ACCESS NETFLIX CONTENT:PrivateVPN’s admittedly small global server network reliably unblocks content in the countries where it has servers. Fast, well-protected connections make the provider a reliable choice for streaming and gaming. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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Methodology for Assessing “Free” VPNs for Netflix

Let’s face it, truly free VPN service providers aren’t a good choice for accessing and streaming Netflix. However, not every paid VPN is a good choice, either.

Here are the important metrics you should pay attention to when deciding on which VPN is the best for Netflix:

• Connection speed: Fast connections are a must for an enjoyable streaming experience, as you want to be able to stream in HD or 4K and not have to wait through extended buffering sessions. All of the VPNs on my list offer fast connection speeds.
• Server network: Netflix is available across most of the world, so you’ll want to look for a VPN with a large server network, which will likely allow you to securely access regional versions of Netflix. A VPN should offer more than one server in each country, as this will mean better performance as no individual server will be bogged down with too many users.
• Value: If you’re looking for a free VPN, you’re obviously concerned about the price. I recommend only VPNs that offer a good return on investment, and which offer at least 30-day money-back guarantees.
• Ease of use: The VPNs I recommend are easy to use, so you don’t have to worry about fiddling with a VPN’s settings in order to start binging your favorite shows. Also, I try to recommend VPNs that support multiple devices, to help you enjoy Netflix on your favorite gadgets.
• Security and privacy: Digital security and privacy protections are important no matter what you’re up to. A VPN should offer, at the very least, banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection, if not more. The VPNs I recommend offer all of the above, while also never saving logs of your online activities.
• Streaming: I made sure to recommend only VPNs that are adept at offering access to multiple video streaming providers. Each VPN on my list offers reliable access to Netflix and other streaming services, including Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

My research doesn’t end here. In fact, evaluating the factors above are just a small part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. My data-driven approach allows me to better understand the VPNs and the services they offer, so I can recommend only those that are a good fit for your needs.

Is a Truly Free VPN a Good Option for Watching Netflix?

A free VPN is basically useless when it comes to reliably unblock and enjoying Netflix.

The most important factor to consider is the fact that Netflix does its darndest to block VPN-provided IP addresses. Over the years, it’s become adept at doing so, so VPN providers have to do their darndest to replace those IP addresses as they’re blocked.

Free VPNs simply don’t have the resources to keep up with this virtual game of whack-a-mole. It will be nearly impossible to unblock Netflix using a free VPN.

In addition, free VPNs impose daily or monthly data caps and throttle your connection speeds in order to save bandwidth and data for their paying customers. Even if you were able to unblock Netflix (which you aren’t), your streaming sessions would be cut short and videos would need to buffer repeatedly.

Plus, free VPNs make you wait in a queue before allowing you to connect to one of their servers. Once you are allowed to connect, you’ll find that your server selection is severely limited, or that there’s no choice at all. The likelihood that you’ll be connected to your country of choice is slim to none.

Finally, consider the threat to your privacy. Free VPNs often make their money by recording your online activities and selling them to the highest bidder. Other free VPN service providers sometimes insert unwanted ads and tracking cookies into your browsing sessions.

Absolutely free VPN providers pose too many problems to ignore. Taking advantage of a paid VPN’s risk-free trial is a much better option.

Conclusion

Lovers of Netflix can find excellent access to international Netflix content libraries by using one of the paid VPN providers listed in this article. Truly free VPNs are simply too hazardous to consider, and each VPN’s money-back guarantee makes them enticing to try, risk-free.

A quality (read: paid) VPN service provider offers the chance to watch Netflix content from all over the world, in addition to improving your privacy and security no matter what you’re up to.

NordVPN is the best option to unblock Netflix around the world. The provider’s ability to unblock Netflix is unparalleled, and its extremely fast speeds will make Netflix streaming an enjoyable experience. A wide server network gives you plenty of options.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.

Best Free VPNs for Netflix FAQs