The best Netflix VPN in 2024 is NordVPN, which reliably unblocks 17-20 Netflix libraries including the U.S., UK, and Japan while maintaining fast speeds for HD and 4K streaming. For budget-conscious users, Surfshark provides access to over 20 Netflix libraries with unlimited device connections, while ExpressVPN consistently bypasses geo-restrictions on almost all international Netflix libraries.
10 Best Netflix VPN Services in 2024
These ten VPNs have proven their ability to consistently unblock Netflix libraries from different countries in 2024. The table below summarizes their key strengths for quick comparison.
| VPN | Key Strength | Device Limit |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Unblocks 17-20 regions, fast 4K speeds | 6 |
| Surfshark | Budget-friendly, 20+ libraries | Unlimited |
| ExpressVPN | Bypasses toughest geo-restrictions | 8 |
| PrivateVPN | Stealth protocol, strong privacy | 10 |
| ProtonVPN | Audited security, paid plans work | 10 |
| VyprVPN | WireGuard protocol, decent speeds | 5 |
| Atlas VPN | Affordable premium option | Unlimited |
| Windscribe | Good free tier with limits | Unlimited |
| Hotspot Shield | Fast connections, US/UK/ Australia | 5 |
| IPVanish | Military-grade encryption, audited | Unlimited |
Why Does Netflix Block VPNs?
Netflix blocks VPNs because of licensing agreements forged with specific regions or countries. Content providers license their shows and movies for distribution only in certain territories, so Netflix must enforce geo-restrictions to comply with these contracts. The US Netflix library alone holds approximately 4,000 movies and 2,500 series, making it a prime target for VPN users. When Netflix detects a VPN, it typically displays an error message like "You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy" with error code E106 or M7111-5059 rather than terminating your account. This means you can try different servers or troubleshooting steps without risking your account.
What to Do When Your VPN Is Blocked by Netflix
When you encounter a Netflix VPN error, follow these troubleshooting steps in order:
- Switch to a different VPN server in the same country or try another country entirely.
- Clear your browser cache and cookies to remove any stored location data.
- Restart your router to reset the network connection and assign a fresh IP address.
- Disable conflicting browser extensions or background software that may interfere with the VPN connection.
- Check that your DNS settings are not leaking by using a DNS leak test tool, and switch to the VPN provider's DNS servers if needed.
Top Netflix VPNs: Detailed Reviews
NordVPN
NordVPN is consistently recommended for Netflix in 2024, reliably unblocking 17-20 regions including the U.S., UK, and Japan, and offering fast speeds for HD and 4K streaming. It features over 5,400 servers, military-grade security with Double VPN and Onion over VPN, a strict no-logs policy, and accepts cryptocurrency payments. NordVPN's Onion over VPN and Double VPN features combine with Obfuscated servers to bypass the Great Firewall of China; install the app before traveling there. NordVPN works as both a desktop and mobile app with 24/7 customer support.
Surfshark
Surfshark is considered a top budget-friendly VPN for Netflix, providing access to over 20 Netflix libraries with fast speeds for 4K streaming and offering unlimited simultaneous device connections. Registered in the British Virgin Islands, it accepts anonymous cryptocurrency payments and includes military-grade encryption with Onion over VPN. Its average download speed of 210.61 Mbit/s makes it excellent for streaming.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is highly effective at bypassing geo-restrictions, unblocking almost all international Netflix libraries, including challenging ones, with fast and consistent connections. This independently audited VPN boasts military-grade encryption with kill switches and multiple protocols, and it offers access to more countries than NordVPN. Its average download speed of 184.77 Mbit/s in the US and UK ensures smooth streaming.
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN combines speed, efficiency, and safety with military-grade encryption, built-in IPv6 and DNS leak protection, a stealth protocol, and a no-logs policy. It delivers good performance for Netflix, gaming, and torrenting, making it a five-star option despite being less well-known than competitors.
ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN paid plans reliably work with Netflix, though its free tier generally does not unblock streaming services and requires a Plus or Unlimited subscription for Netflix access. Based in Switzerland, it is independently audited by Sec Consult and does not store log data, though it keeps a record of your last login time that deletes upon next login. While capable of unblocking Netflix US and UK, there may be some loading latency.
VyprVPN
VyprVPN has been operating since 2009 and offers strong anti-censorship capability, good security, a tight privacy policy, decent speeds, and reliable unblocking of geo-restricted content with the introduction of the WireGuard Protocol. It costs $8.33 per month billed annually. It does not accept anonymous payments, only PayPal and credit cards.
Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN offers free and paid options, but unblocking geo-restricted content from other Netflix libraries is impossible on the free version. The premium version is affordable, with the basic plan costing $1.39 per month for a three-year upfront subscription, and provides a safe, effective VPN experience for streaming.
Windscribe
Windscribe has a no-log policy, good security features, and works on multiple devices. Its free version has a data connection cap of 2 GB per month, while the premium version at $4.08 per month (billed annually) provides more streaming capability.
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield offers fast-speed connections with AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and no IP or DNS leaks. It can unblock Netflix US, UK, and Australia libraries with a premium account but cannot access Japan and Canada libraries.
IPVanish
IPVanish boasts AES 256-Bit military-grade encryption and is audited for DNS and IP leaks. It offers a kill switch for Mac, Windows, and Android, though this feature is unavailable for iOS. It serves more countries than top-tier VPNs, though it provides limited unblocking of geo-restricted content.
Can You Use a Free VPN for Netflix?
Most free VPNs do not work reliably with Netflix. They typically have data caps, slow speeds, and limited server options that cannot bypass Netflix's geo-restrictions. While some sources claim ProtonVPN's free version provides access to Netflix libraries in South Korea, India, France, and the US with unlimited data, ProtonVPN's official documentation states a paid plan is required for streaming. Free VPNs also risk making a product out of your data through ads and may deliver poor performance, limited servers, and slow speeds.
Choosing the Right Netflix VPN for You
For budget-conscious users, Surfshark offers unlimited device connections and access to over 20 Netflix libraries at an affordable price. If speed and reliability are your priority, ExpressVPN consistently bypasses even the toughest geo-restrictions with fast connections. For the best combination of security and region access, NordVPN unblocks 17-20 regions with military-grade encryption and fast 4K streaming speeds. If you are looking for free streaming options beyond Netflix, check out the 15 best free TV streaming apps that are legit and safe, or explore the top 16 free movie apps you should try out for additional content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is using a VPN with Netflix legal?
Yes, using a VPN with Netflix is safe and legal. Netflix's terms of service do not prohibit VPN use, though the service may block access if it detects a VPN connection.
Will Netflix ban my account for using a VPN?
No, Netflix does not terminate accounts for using a VPN. It displays an error message rather than terminating the account, typically showing "You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy" with code E106 or M7111-5059 instead.
What internet speed do I need for Netflix with a VPN?
For uninterrupted HD streaming, a VPN service with at least 100 Mbps average speed is sufficient. For 4K streaming, look for speeds above 200 Mbps.
Can I use one VPN subscription on multiple devices for Netflix?
Yes, most premium VPNs allow multiple simultaneous connections. Surfshark and Atlas VPN offer unlimited device connections, while NordVPN allows 6 and ExpressVPN allows 8.
Why does my VPN sometimes stop working with Netflix?
Netflix regularly updates its VPN detection methods, so servers that worked previously may be blocked. Switching to a different server or contacting your VPN provider's support team usually resolves the issue.
