A virtual private network (VPN), often called a VPN tunnel, is a software tool that creates a secure, encrypted internet connection between your device and the service you access. Your normal internet connection is routed through a VPN server before it reaches the wider internet, hiding your real location and identity.
Netflix offers a unique selection of movies, documentaries, and TV shows based on your geographical location. With a VPN, you can change your apparent location, giving you access to streaming content that is otherwise restricted in your country. This is called bypassing geo restrictions.
The Challenge of Finding a Free VPN for Netflix
Finding a free VPN that reliably works with Netflix is extremely difficult. Netflix uses sophisticated VPN blocking technologies, making it hard even for paid services to consistently unblock its libraries. Free VPNs usually have limitations, such as slow speeds, strict data quotas, and a limited server network. Many free VPNs also compromise privacy and security.
For a reliable, seamless experience, premium VPNs with free trials or money back guarantees are highly recommended. Services like NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer risk free access to Netflix content with their trial periods or 30 day money back guarantees.
Top 8 VPNs That Can Work for Netflix
Here are the 8 best VPNs that can work for Netflix in 2026, including both free trials and premium options to unblock international content.
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is the top choice for consistent Netflix access. It unblocks over 20 Netflix libraries, including the US, UK, Australia, France, and Japan. With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, routers, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Roku.
During tests, accessing US Netflix on an iPhone and MacBook Pro was seamless. Unlimited bandwidth ensures flawless streaming, and you can connect up to five devices simultaneously. Although not free, ExpressVPN offers a 30 day money back guarantee, making it a risk free option superior to any free VPN.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN is known for its fast WireGuard protocol, offering quick connections and minimal buffering. It unblocks 16 Netflix libraries via 5,400 servers in 60 countries, including key regions like the US, UK, and Japan.
Android users can enjoy a 7 day free trial with full access. NordVPN also supports other streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer, DAZN, Hulu, and HBO Max. After the trial, you can continue risk free with the 30 day money back guarantee.
3. Windscribe VPN
Windscribe is a free VPN option for streaming Netflix, providing access to 10 Netflix libraries. It has servers in over 60 countries, including the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. The US Windflix server is specifically designed for Netflix.
The unlimited plan is free, protecting user data and offering a Stealth Mode to bypass geo restrictions. Testing showed fast speeds with minimal buffering, making it a great free option for Netflix.
4. Surfshark VPN
Surfshark allows access to over 30 Netflix libraries. It uses WireGuard for high speed connections and operates over 3,200 servers in 65 countries. The VPN includes a SmartDNS feature, enabling streaming on devices like Smart TVs.
A free trial is available for seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS, and the 30 day money back guarantee ensures risk free continued access.
5. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost features servers optimized for Netflix, successfully unblocking 15 libraries, including the US, UK, and Canada. Its network spans 7,890 servers in 90 countries.
Speeds are sufficient for HD streaming, and up to seven devices can connect simultaneously. CyberGhost’s 45 day money back guarantee allows longer testing than most competitors.
6. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN’s free tier does not consistently unblock Netflix, but its 7 day free trial of the paid service is ideal for temporary access. Unlimited data and fast speeds are available across servers in Japan, the Netherlands, and the US.
ProtonVPN supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. After the trial, users can continue with the free plan or upgrade for unrestricted global streaming.
7. Hide.me VPN
Hide.me provides 10GB of free monthly bandwidth, enough for nearly five hours of HD streaming. It unblocks four Netflix libraries with servers in Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, and the US.
Hide.me allows one free connection, but router support enables multiple device connections. Customer service is available 24/7 via live chat and email, ensuring smooth streaming.
8. Opera VPN
Opera VPN is a browser based proxy service that imposes no bandwidth restrictions. It offers servers in the US, Singapore, Canada, Germany, and more.
Setup is simple, and streaming tests showed that it can unblock all major Netflix libraries. While limited to browser use, Opera VPN is a solid free option with minimal impact on speed.
Conclusion
Finding a VPN that consistently works with Netflix is not easy, especially for free services. The 8 best VPNs that can work for Netflix listed above provide reliable streaming options, with premium services offering risk free trials and money back guarantees.
For consistent access, unlimited bandwidth, and global library coverage, premium VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are the top choices. For free options, Windscribe, ProtonVPN, Hide.me, and Opera VPN offer limited but usable solutions for streaming Netflix from anywhere in 2026.