While there is a wide range of free VPNs available, it isn’t easy to find a trustworthy one that will keep you secure and allow you to access Netflix. We discovered that most VPNs that claim to be free are filled with annoying ads, scams, and many restrictions during our test.
It is important to note that every free VPNs comes with disadvantages. Some of the most common issues include limited bandwidth and data, slow connection speed, small server network, congestion, and inability to unblock streaming sites.
There are even some free VPNs that could compromise your privacy. That is why I have compiled some of the best really free VPNs for Netflix with decent speeds, security, and privacy.
A quick guide to the best free VPNs
- ExpressVPN – Extensive server network, robust security features, unlimited bandwidth and data, lightning-fast speeds, and a 30-day money-back guarantee to try it risk-free.
- Windscribe –
Our research methodology
To compile this list, we conducted monthly tests for each free VPN using real-life cases and other performance analysis tools. Some of the things we focused on were speeds, security, server distribution, data limitation, and reliability. We also considered torrenting support, compatibility, privacy policies, and extra features such as malware blocking.
- We dug deeper into each VPN’s security features to test for any vulnerabilities that could endanger your privacy. Furthermore, we looked into the privacy policies to find out which data is logged. Remember that only VPN providers who observe a strict zero-logs policy can guarantee privacy.
- Speed is another critical factor that we looked at by comparing our internet speed before and after connecting a VPN. It is normal for a VPN to slow down your connection. However, some free VPNs can deliberately slow your internet connection to lure to subscribe to the paid plans. A reliable free VPN should not compromise your normal connection.
- The server you use can make a big difference—the more extensive the server network, the better the chances of unblocking more Netflix content. We tested several servers in regions with popular Netflix libraries such as the US, UK, and Australia.
How a VPN unblocks Netflix libraries in different regions
Netflix will only allow you to access its content based on your physical location. It does this to comply with local copyright regulations. The company relies on a unique set of numbers known as the IP address to detect where you are. Your connection is blocked if you try to access a library outside your region.
If you use a reliable VPN, it will trick Netflix that you are located somewhere else. For example, if you are in India, you can connect to a US server to access the US library. A good VPN should bypass Netflix restrictions and allow you to access catalogs from other countries.
The only issue is that Netflix’s restrictions are advanced for many free VPNs and some premium ones. If the VPN does not have strong encryption, recycle IP addresses or redirect your DNS request, be sure that Netflix will detect that you are trying to bypass its restrictions.
Major issues associated with free VPNs
Because you already pay a monthly Netflix subscription, it is reasonable you wouldn’t want an additional plan. We did extensive testing on each VPN on this list to ensure they work well and are safe to use. However, keep in mind that most free VPN services are unable to bypass Netflix’s restriction and can compromise your privacy.
- Poor performance
Many free VPNs cannot unblock Netflix because of fewer servers, limited IP addresses, and inferior encryption.
The only free VPNs that can bypass the location-based restrictions are the experimental versions of the premium services. However, the providers will intentionally limit some features to lure you subscribe to the paid plans.
- Safety issues
One of the biggest risks of using a free VPN is the compromise to security. There have been cases of some free VPNs keeping extensive logs of user activities and selling private data to third parties without consent.
Making it worse, some free VPNs have a reputation for injecting malware to devices to gain access to sensitive data. That is why it is recommended to pay a few dollars for a premium service to safeguard your information and stay safe.
Factors to consider when choosing a free VPN for Netflix
- Servers in strategic locations
Check whether the VPN has servers in the country where you want to access Netflix. For example, if you want to access UK content, make sure the VPN has servers in the UK.
- Unblocks Netflix
Even if it has servers in the right locations, check whether the servers can bypass Netflix restrictions.
- Data and bandwidth limitation
While some free VPNs can bypass Netflix’s restrictions, many put limitations that can severely impact your experience.
- Strong security
Ensure the VPN has robust security features such as 256-bit encryption, kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. If the encryption is inferior, your IP address can be leaked to reveal your real location. As a result, your connection will be discontinued if you are accessing geo-blocked content.
- Fast speeds
Most free VPNs have congested servers that are extremely slow even to watch Netflix. To have decent streaming, you should look for a minimum speed of 5mbps and above.
Free VPNs you should avoid
These are some of the free VPNs that you should avoid when streaming Netflix
- HolaVPN
If you are an ardent internet user, you have maybe come across this free VPN. Avoid it at all costs because it is not really a VPN. Instead of routing your traffic through an encrypted channel like a VPN, it works by sharing resources in a peer network.
Worst of it, it does not encrypt data and keeps your logs. If your IP address lands in the wrong hands, it can be used for illegal activities.
- UFO VPN
Please don’t use this VPN because it has been associated with leaks and theft of user’s private data such as email, passwords, and even bank information.
- TouchVPN
This is another VPN that should never use. It logs user data, including your online history and even IP address.
- OpenVPN
This VPN indicates that it logs all personal information, including IP addresses, to send targeted ads in its privacy policy.
What to do if the VPN stops works for Netflix
Since Netflix is always upgrading its VPN detection software, even the most reputable VPN stops working sometimes. This are some of the tips I have used in case I get an error message.
- Use a different browser.
If your VPN stops working with Netflix, you can try to switch browsers. When my VPN stops working when I am using Chrome, switching to another browser like Firefox or Safari offers better results.
- Clear the web cookies and cache
This information can reveal your real location, even if you are using a different one. Go to your browser settings to delete all the cookies and cache. Restart your device, sign in to your account and try streaming again.
- Contact customer support
If the above solutions don’t work for you, you can contact the VPN’s customer support. Reliable VPNs such as NordVPN has options such as 24/7 live chat and email services for any issue you may have.
Really Free VPNs for Netflix frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Which free VPNs have good speeds to stream Netflix?
Most free VPNs that unblock Netflix are very slow to even stream in the lowest definition. This is because they can’t offer decent streaming speeds. Some may even limit your data, bandwidth, and access to servers.
From our testing, Netflix is the fastest VPN for unlimited Netflix streaming. You can take advantage of the 30-days money-back guarantee to enjoy the services for free. If you decide to subscribe, it has an affordable long-term plan.
- Can I use a free VPN to stream Netflix on my phone and smart TV?
This will depend on the devices your VPN is compatible with. The VPNs mentioned above are compatible with almost all major operating systems. Some VPNs do not have native apps for smart TVs.
- Can free proxies unblock Netflix?
No. Even the most advanced proxy cannot bypass Netflix restrictions. Instead, you can try one of these best VPNs for Netflix from this list.
- Is it legal and safe to use a free VPN to access Netflix?
It is legal to use a VPN to access Netflix libraries even if it discourages it by using advanced technologies. The downside is that most free VPNs are not safe to use at all because they have weak protection to surveillance and infect your devices with malware.
- Can Netflix ban my account for using a free VPN?
Netflix will not ban your account if you try to access content in other regions. There is nowhere in the Terms of Use that it has explicitly mentioned about VPNs.
Best Really Free VPNs for Netflix
- NordVPN – Best overall for Streaming Netflix
Key features
- 5000+ servers in 60+ locations
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- SmartPlay feature
- Obfuscated servers
- Unlimited data and bandwidth
- Compatible with all major platforms
While NordVPN is not entirely free, it is one of the best VPNs for unblocking Netflix available. We have featured it on this list because it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to enjoy the services for free. Some of its notable features include super-fast speeds, extensive server network, and dependable security features.
Even when using the free trial, it does not limit any of its features. This means that your data usage and speed will not be restricted to stream Netflix in high definition.
NordVPN has an extensive network of more than 5000 servers to enable you to unblock Netflix libraries in many regions. It has a SmartPlay feature that automatically bypasses Netflix’s geo-blocks while still encrypting your data. We tested it in popular Netflix libraries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, and it worked well.
When using NordVPN, Netflix cannot detect your location even if you try different servers in the same location because the provider refreshes the IP addresses occasionally. Moreover, it has a wide selection of IP addresses, and you can always get a new one if the one you are using gets blocked.
This VPN guarantees super-fast speeds to stream Netflix even in ultra HD. There is a quick connect feature that will help you connect to the fastest server close to you.
Apart from Netflix, NordVPN unblocks almost all popular streaming sites, including BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Videos, Hulu, etc.
It has obfuscated servers to prevent your internet service provider (ISP) from detecting your VPN usage. This means you still stream Netflix in countries that block or sensor VPN use such as China, Russia, and the UAE.
NordVPN has native apps for Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. It allows you to connect up to six simultaneous connections.
Pros
- Unblocks Netflix
- Super-fast speeds
- Strong encryption
Cons
- Cumbersome interface
- ExpressVPN –
Main features
- 3000+ servers in 94+ countries
- Unlimited data and bandwidth
- 24/7 customer support
- Five simultaneous connections
- Split tunneling
- Automatic kill switch
ExpressVPN is another reliable VPN to stream Netflix. While it is not entirely free, you can take advantage of the three-month free service offered in the new exclusive 12-month deal. This VPN has a long reputation for high speeds and reliability to unblock Netflix.
It has a massive network of more than 3000 servers spread across 94 countries. You will access several popular Netflix libraries, including the US, France, the UK, Japan, and Australia.
The Smart Location feature allows you to connect the fastest server at any given time. All the servers have enough speeds to stream Netflix in high definition.
Most servers are obfuscated to disguise your traffic to look like you are not using a VPN. This is an excellent feature if you are trying to access Netflix in countries with strong censorship.
One of the most striking features is the MediaStreamer DNS to stream Netflix on devices that don’t work with VPNs such as consoles and Apple TV.
It offers unlimited bandwidth and data to stream in high definition. The best part is that it allows P2P sharing on all its servers so you can torrent seamlessly.
Since the provider is located in a privacy friendly country and observes a strict zero-logs policy, your online activities cannot be traced back to you. It works well with BitTorrent, uTorrent, and other major torrenting sites.
It allows only five simultaneous connections on a single subscription. While this is fewer than its competitors, you can install it on your router to stream Netflix on all of your devices.
ExpressVPN uses military-grade AES 256-bit encryption and reinforces it with 4096 –bit RSA authentication key, AES 256-bit cipher, and SHA-512 HMAC authentication. This is one of the most secure encryption that is near-impossible to break.
If you face any problem, you can contact the customer support team available 24/7 for assistance. In our experience, the representatives are courteous and very knowledgeable.
Pros
- Unblocks Netflix and allows torrenting
- Strong encryption
- Reliable customer support
Cons
- Slightly pricey
- Surfshark VPN – Affordable VPN for Netflix
Main features
- 1700+ servers in over 61 countries
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Native apps for all major platforms
- Cleanweb ad blocker
- Whitelist
Surfshark is a premium VPN service with a very affordable long-term plan. You can also take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee on any of its plans.
It has a decent-sized network of over 1700 servers spread across 160 locations, which means you access the Netflix library in other countries. Apart from unblocking Netflix, most of its servers support P2P sharing so you can access torrenting sites.
The VPN offers unlimited data and bandwidth transfer to allow you to stream in ultra-HD. It will enable you to connect even unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account. This means you can stream Netflix on all of your devices.
You can utilize the CleanWeb adblocker when accessing free movie streaming sites. Another incredible feature is the Whitelister feature that allows you to choose the traffic to bypass the VPN connection.
In terms of protecting your privacy, Surfshark observes a strict zero-log policy and encrypts your traffic with AES 256-bit encryption and OpenVPN protocol. The provider goes a step further to feature multi-hop encryption that travels your traffic through two servers at once.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat. You only need to hit the support icon at the bottom of the homepage. The representatives are friendly and answer queries quickly.
Pros
- Unblocks Netflix
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Affordable long-time plan
Cons
- Limited P2P servers
Conclusion
Most free VPNs are unable to bypass Netflix restrictions and have bad reputations for security and privacy. That is why you should try the free versions of premium VPN service. Fortunately, most premium VPNs like NordVPN offer unlimited bandwidth and data to stream Netflix. Best of all, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to enjoy the service risk-free.