6 Best Free VPNs for Netflix That Still Work — Tested in 2024 - Orange BYBK (2024)

6 Best Free VPNs for Netflix That Still Work When it comes to finding a good free VPN for Netflix, it can be a challenging task. This is because most free VPNs come with significant limitations that can negatively impact your Netflix streaming experience. These limitations include data caps that restrict streaming time, slow speeds, and small server networks that are usually overcrowded and unreliable. It’s worth noting that even if you manage to find a free VPN service that works with Netflix, accessing foreign libraries violates Netflix’s terms and conditions.

This could lead to copyright infringement issues, so it’s not recommended to do this anyway.To ensure a seamless Netflix streaming experience, it’s advisable to invest in a premium VPN that offers faster speeds, unlimited data usage, and access to a vast network of servers. Premium VPNs guarantee better security and privacy features as well as customer support in case you encounter any problems while using the service.

Testing over 25+ free VPNs, my team and I discovered that most of them do not work with Netflix. However, we were able to find a few 100% free options that allow secure streaming of local Netflix content at reasonable speeds. It is important to note that premium VPNs are always a better option for streaming Netflix. After extensive testing, ExpressVPN emerged as the fastest and smoothest option in UHD with no interruptions. Moreover, you can try ExpressVPN for Netflix risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee policy.

Best Free VPNs for Netflix — Full Detailed List

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Servers that Reliably Work With Local Netflix Libraries for UHD Streaming

ExpressVPN may not be completely free, but it stands out as the most dependable VPN for secure 4k streaming on Netflix. None of the free VPNs come close to matching ExpressVPN’s streaming speeds and overall reliability. With a network of 3,000 servers in 105 countries, ExpressVPN ensures fast nearby servers for smooth streaming of local Netflix content without buffering. Our international team seamlessly streamed local Netflix content in various countries without any interruptions or buffering while using ExpressVPN. It provides fast speeds and unlimited data for uninterrupted Netflix streaming, surpassing the speeds offered by any free VPN in our testing. In every test performed, ExpressVPN’s servers allowed for UHD streaming without any buffering.

Watching Netflix on your smart TV with ExpressVPN is a breeze. The VPN provider has a native app for Android TV and Amazon FireStick, making it easy to access the streaming service on those devices. Moreover, its MediaStreamer (smart DNS) service allows you to watch Netflix at lightning-fast speeds on gaming consoles, Apple TV, or any streaming device that lets you configure your network settings.ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you can try it out without any financial risk. I personally tested this policy and found it to be legitimate. When I contacted their 24/7 live chat support to cancel my subscription, the agent asked me a few questions about why I wanted to cancel and quickly approved my refund request. My money was back in my account within two days.

Special Features

• Rotating IP addresses. Each ExpressVPN server changes its IP address every 24 hours. So, even if Netflix blocks one of its servers and it stops working, you won’t have to wait long for it to be fixed.
• 8 simultaneous device connections. During my tests, I set up my iPhone, MacBook, Windows laptop, and tablet to the VPN. Even while playing different Netflix shows on each device at the same time, I didn’t experience any lag or buffering.
• Compatible with a range of devices. You can use ExpressVPN with a number of devices and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, smart TVs, Amazon FireStick, Roku, and more. It’s also one of the only VPNs with a native router app, so you can privately stream Netflix on all the devices in your household.
• Split tunneling. This feature lets you watch Netflix through your VPN connection while using your regular internet for everything else. When I tried this, I streamed Netflix securely via the VPN while online gaming on my normal low-latency connection.

ExpressVPN

2. CyberGhost — Specialty Servers Optimized for Watching Netflix Without Buffering

CyberGhost’s optimized servers for Netflix allowed me to watch without any buffering. During testing by my international team, these dedicated servers performed well across 15+ countries, including the US, the UK, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, and Sweden. Users were able to stream their local Netflix library with no issues, thanks to the continuous maintenance of these servers. Additionally, CyberGhost’s Smart DNS feature enables streaming on devices that don’t typically support VPNs. Setting it up on my smart TV was quick and easy, requiring only 5 minutes and no technical expertise, thanks to the detailed guide provided on the website.

I reside in a large household, so I appreciate the fact that I can utilize CyberGhost to stream Netflix on up to 7 devices. I convinced my housemates to test this, and we managed to stream Netflix on all 7 of our devices without experiencing any reduction in quality or buffering. Although it’s not entirely free, you can test CyberGhost for Netflix without risk by taking advantage of its generous 45-day money-back guarantee when you subscribe to its long-term plan. If you’re hesitant about making a larger financial commitment, you can opt for a monthly subscription, but in that case, you will only receive a 14-day money-back guarantee.

Special Features

• Great speeds. While it doesn’t match the speed of ExpressVPN, it still offers impressive speeds. On non-optimized servers, there was an average 9% decrease in speed, but the Netflix streaming server had a faster 5% drop. I encountered no streaming lag with either.
• Beginner-friendly app. CyberGhost’s application is user-friendly – I spent under a minute downloading and installing each version on my devices. I quickly found the streaming server I was looking for and added it to my favorites for faster access in the future.

CyberGhost VPN Review

3. Proton VPN — 100% Free VPN With Unlimited Data to Stream Netflix for Hours

Proton VPN is among the few free VPN services that provide unlimited data for continuous Netflix streaming. Unlike most free VPNs that impose a monthly limit of less than 10GB, which is equivalent to just over one HD feature-length movie, Proton VPN allows for uninterrupted Netflix movie watching throughout the day during my testing. Additionally, Proton VPN offers good speeds across all 65 of its free servers located in the US, the Netherlands, and Japan, enabling Ultra HD streaming without buffering. Notably, I personally tested the Netherlands server during a trip to Amsterdam and experienced consistently high internet speeds, with a maximum decrease of only 25%.

I also appreciated the ability to customize a connection profile for Netflix, which essentially consists of automated settings that allow you to choose the protocol, server, and location with a simple click. This means you can quickly resume binge-watching. It’s unfortunate that Proton VPN’s free servers restrict you to watching Netflix Originals only. However, there are few free VPNs that are compatible with Netflix, and most impose limitations and slow speeds. Therefore, I was pleased to be able to watch some shows, albeit with limitations.

Special Features

• Great compatibility. Proton VPN offers remarkable compatibility in comparison to the majority of free VPNs. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and even routers. Despite being limited to a single device connection, you can overcome this restriction by connecting to a router.
• No ads in the app. The Proton VPN app is free of ads, unlike many other VPNs I’ve used.

ProtonVPN Review

4. Avira Phantom VPN — US Streaming-Optimized Server for Reliably Watching Netflix From America

Avira Phantom’s free mobile VPN includes a US streaming server that is compatible with Netflix US, validated by my American colleague. This is perfect for Americans who want to securely access their local Netflix content. However, our international team faced challenges accessing their local Netflix libraries and were only able to view Netflix Originals during their tests. Additionally, it allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, enabling usage on multiple devices. It is an effective solution for bypassing the restrictive 500MB/month data cap, which can be increased to 1GB monthly by creating an account with an email. I successfully downloaded it on both my iPad and iPhone, and had the entire monthly allowance available for each device.

Avira Phantom can be used for free on both Windows and Mac, but you are limited to accessing only 1 server location, which is chosen randomly based on your location. While this is generally sufficient for streaming your local Netflix library, there is a chance that you might be connected to servers in nearby countries, which could prevent you from watching the content you want.

Special Features

• Good speeds. Its speeds were not as quick as those of ExpressVPN or CyberGhost, but they were satisfactory for streaming. Our team in the United States found that they were able to stream Originals with no buffering using the free servers in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.
• 7-day free trial. Avira Phantom also provides a 7-day trial of its premium plan, providing unlimited data, live support access, and additional security features such as a kill switch.

Avira Antivirus Review

5. hide.me — Totally Free VPN With Consistent Speeds to Watch Netflix Without Buffering

Hide.me stands out as a rare free VPN that does not impose any speed restrictions. It provides free servers in a total of 8 countries, including Canada, the US, the UK, Spain, Germany, France, Singapore, and Japan. Our team members located in these countries have confirmed that these servers are compatible with their local Netflix libraries. One of our American testers was able to stream The Watcher on Netflix US in the highest quality without encountering any buffering issues. We found that hide.me is one of the fastest free VPNs we have tested, making it ideal for high-quality streaming. While its website claims that the free plan does not support streaming, our testing team was able to watch Netflix Originals for the most part. Additionally, our testers in the Netherlands, UK, and Canada discovered that they could occasionally access their entire local library, although not consistently.

Regrettably, hide.me also restricts you to connecting only 1 device at a time. It is no longer possible to set it up on your router with the free plan. Additionally, since you need to sign up to use it, bypassing this limit would require creating multiple accounts.

Specail Features

• 10GB data/month. While it doesn’t provide unlimited data similar to ExpressVPN or CyberGhost, it is quite generous for a free VPN. In my testing, I managed to stream in HD for approximately 5 hours, but you could probably achieve up to 6 hours with standard-quality streaming.
• 24/7 live chat support. If you require any help, you can access its customer support around the clock, which is uncommon for free VPNs. When I needed information on server locations, I was connected to a live chat representative in under 10 seconds.

6. TunnelBear — Free Access to Its Entire Server Network to Watch Netflix on Nearby Servers

TunnelBear provides free access to its complete server network, so you will probably find a nearby server that is perfect for securely streaming content from your local Netflix library. Similar to other free VPNs in this collection, I was only able to stream Netflix Originals during my trials. However, our global testing team has previously been able to access their entire local libraries, particularly the testers from the US, the UK, and Canada. You may experience the same level of success.

The episode took a while to load, but it played without any issues afterwards. However, the free plan only includes 2GB of data per month, which allows for approximately 90 minutes of standard definition streaming. This wasn’t sufficient for me to watch the entire Bird Box Barcelona movie. To remove the data cap, you will have to upgrade to a premium plan.

Special Features

• Decent speeds. It provides good speeds for seamless streaming on local Netflix libraries. However, there is a notable increase in traffic on popular servers during peak hours, which can cause slowdowns affecting the quality of HD streaming.
• Simple app. TunnelBear’s distinctive and easy-to-use interface sets it apart. The application is packed with bear-themed jokes (which I personally enjoy), and the animated bear tunnels through the various servers. It’s a great choice for VPN beginners looking for a less daunting app.

Best VPN For Windows

Best Free VPNs for Netflix

When selecting a free VPN for Netflix, it’s important to take into account the data allowance for uninterrupted viewing. Additionally, it should effectively support Netflix. Smooth streaming requires decent speeds (minimum 5 Mbps for HD), and compatibility with your preferred streaming devices is crucial for easy installation and viewing.

How to Choose the Best VPN for Netflix

When looking for a reliable free VPN for Netflix, there are a few criteria you need to pay attention to. I tested the following features to rank the best free VPNs for Netflix. You can use the list below when shopping for the right VPN:

• Really free or trustworthy money-back guarantee. I ensured that all the VPNs on my list are completely free or come with a tried and tested money-back guarantee so you can use them with no financial risk.
• Reliably works with Netflix. Unfortunately, it’s extremely difficult to find a fully free VPN that consistently works with Netflix. I listed 100% free VPNs that allowed myself and my international testing team to watch shows and movies on our local Netflix libraries without much issue. That being said, you’ll likely still run into trouble sooner or later, as free VPN servers just aren’t well-maintained — that’s why a premium VPN with a trustworthy money-back guarantee is your best bet for securing your Netflix streaming sessions.
• Large number of servers. I’ve only recommended free VPNs with a variety of server locations, raising the chance you’ll have one nearby to you that’s ideal for securely accessing your local Netflix library. Plus, a good number of servers ensures you’ll have a backup server to try if the one you’re using doesn’t work.
• Fast speeds and enough data. This is so you can stream Netflix without long loading times or being cut off from the VPN. I conducted speed tests for all the VPNs on my list to ensure you can watch your favorite shows with minimal buffering.
• Compatibility with multiple devices. Every VPN on this list is compatible with multiple devices you can use with Netflix. If you want to watch Netflix with fast speeds on devices that usually don’t support VPNs, make sure to choose a VPN that has router support and/or Smart DNS.
• Excellent customer support. VPN support can usually tell you which local server will offer you the best Netflix experience. 24/7 live chat is the most convenient method of getting support, but only a few of the above VPNs offer it. At the very least, you should be able to reach out to support via email or a contact form and receive a timely response.

The Risks of Free VPNs

There are often limitations associated with free VPNs, including data limits, reduced speeds, restricted server networks, and a limited number of device connections. Furthermore, many free VPNs carry significant risks.

• Free VPNs can store and sell your data to third parties: Because free VPNs need other ways to make money, they often sell your user data to third parties. You should always read the privacy policies to make sure the free VPN really keeps you safe.
• Free VPNs can have weak security features and leak your info: Many free VPNs don’t have the resources to keep their features up to date. This often results in IP/DNS leaks, meaning that your privacy isn’t protected at all.
• Free VPNs can be infected with harmful malware: Free VPNs are sometimes created with the intention of infecting your device with viruses and malware. Moreover, free VPNs rely on advertising for money, so they usually don’t provide built-in ad blockers. This increases the risk of your VPN app hosting malware-infected ads.
• The VPNs we’ve included in this list are ‘freemium’ VPNs, so they provide free versions that are funded by paying users. This means they don’t come with the same risks that totally free VPNs do.

Free VPNs You Should Avoid

The below-listed free VPNs have been verified to be unsafe for usage. They may disseminate your data to third-party organizations or carry malicious software and viruses.

• Hola Free: Hola is not a VPN but a P2P network. This means that others use your computer’s IP address. It could get you in trouble since their activities will be traced back to you.
• Betternet: Found to install malware onto users’ devices in the past.
• TouchVPN: Logs your browsing activity and shares it with third parties to create targeted ads.
• OperaVPN: Has an invasive logging policy. Its privacy policy states that it stores some of your personal data, like your location. It also gives you targeted ads and sells customer data to third parties.
• UFO VPN: Leaked 20 million paid and free users’ data, including IP addresses, passwords, geo-tags, session information, connection timestamps, and device and OS details.

How to Watch Netflix With a Free VPN in 3 Easy Steps

• Download a VPN. I highly recommend ExpressVPN as the most reliable VPN for Netflix, and it comes with a money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free despite not being free.
• Connect to a nearby server. If you are in the United States, it is recommended to use a US VPN server. Choose a server near your location for better speed.
• Start streaming. You can now sign in to Netflix and enjoy watching your preferred movies and shows.

VPN Not Working With Netflix? Try These Troubleshooting Tips

At times, Netflix may detect the use of a VPN and will either display only Originals or show the following error message:

• Choose another VPN server. Consider the possibility that the server you selected is being blocked by Netflix. Attempt to switch to a different server.
• Make sure your VPN is up-to-date. Be certain to utilize the latest VPN version to guarantee that any glitches or problems have been addressed.
• Try another web browser. Consider using Firefox or Chrome, as they are generally the top choices for streaming Netflix.
• Contact customer support. Contact the customer support of the VPN to inquire about the optimal server for accessing your local Netflix library.

Best Free VPNs for Netflix: FAQs

Can I watch Netflix in the US, Japan, and other countries with a free VPN?

Indeed, it’s often unreliable. Free VPN services lack sufficient IP addresses, and the ones they provide are typically not regularly updated. Consequently, if Netflix identifies and blocks a free VPN IP, it is unlikely to work again until the VPN refreshes its IPs. For a reliable Netflix streaming experience, a premium VPN is always the better choice.Please note that using a free VPN to access foreign Netflix libraries is technically possible, but it would breach the platform’s terms and conditions and could violate copyright law.

Which free VPN doesn’t require a credit card to sign up?

Some VPNs offer sign-ups without requiring payment details, ensuring no unexpected charges. Alternatively, the paid VPNs in the list require valid payment but accept alternative methods like PayPal or cryptocurrency. Additionally, both provide legitimate money-back guarantees for hassle-free refunds.

Will a free VPN give me fast speeds for Netflix?

Free VPNs typically do not offer fast speeds for streaming Netflix due to limited server options and a high number of users, leading to slower speeds and buffering problems. Additionally, some free VPNs may restrict bandwidth or slow down your connection. To enhance your Netflix streaming experience, I suggest using a premium VPN service.

Is using a free VPN for Netflix safe?

Using a free VPN for Netflix may not be completely secure. Free VPN services often have uncertain privacy practices, such as logging your data or showing intrusive ads. Some even sell your browsing habits to third parties. To ensure a safe Netflix experience, it’s better to opt for a reputable paid VPN service that focuses on user privacy. Additionally, free VPNs may lack strong security features, making your online activities susceptible to hackers or surveillance.

Can I use a free proxy to access Netflix?

Using free proxies to access foreign Netflix libraries is not advisable as they are typically unreliable and insecure. This action goes against the terms and conditions of Netflix and may be considered a violation of copyright law. If you want to secure your streaming sessions on your local Netflix library, I suggest using a trusted VPN for protection.

On which devices can I use a free VPN to secure my Netflix streaming?

You can download most free VPNs on laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones. Furthermore, our leading premium VPN provides applications for select smart TVs and streaming devices.

VPN services that work across multiple devices typically impose a restriction on the number of simultaneous connections. Therefore, having a VPN that is compatible with routers is beneficial as it allows you to protect all the devices within your home network. Below are the top free VPNs for Netflix, along with the compatible devices for accessing Netflix.

Is using a free VPN for Netflix illegal?

The legality of using a VPN depends on the purpose. Using it to secure Netflix streaming at your local library is usually not illegal. However, accessing Netflix content unavailable in your area using a VPN could violate copyright law and Netflix’s terms and conditions.

It is important to consider that using a VPN in a country where their use is banned or regulated could result in breaking the law (for example, many VPNs are banned in China, while they are regulated in Russia). It is recommended to consistently verify the local rules and regulations to avoid unintentionally violating any laws.