Netflix is available for streaming in 190+ countries, but the content available for each varies — sometimes wildly. Of them all, its American catalog is the most in-demand. No surprise there, as it offers an extensive selection, with titles that often premiere before making their way to other regions, if at all. However, as the name suggests, that catalog is only accessible to United States residents. If you’re an American in the United Kingdom or just a fan of the diverse content available, you need a workaround to watch Netflix US in the UK.
Don’t fret; it’s not as daunting as it sounds. The most reliable approach is using a virtual private network (VPN). In this article, we’ll explore the steps involved and add a few options that will help you access Netflix US in the United Kingdom. But first, here’s a brief overview.
Why You Need a VPN to Watch Netflix US in the UK
Many users naturally expect Netflix US, the streaming service’s most popular library, to offer the most extensive content. If you do, the reality will surprise you. In fact, it doesn’t even rank within the top 20 when it comes to the sheer quantity of movies, TV shows, and other titles available for viewing.
That said, quality and content variety are what set it apart. Netflix US boasts a wide array of top-quality movies, TV series, and original programs. And because a significant chunk of that content is exclusive, many critically acclaimed shows and documentaries, blockbuster movies, and loads of other content are only accessible to American viewers.
When you’re in the United States, you only need an active Netflix subscription to explore and enjoy that content. However, as soon as you leave the country — even before you land at Heathrow or any other point of entry in the United Kingdom — you lose access to your preferred selection.
When you launch the Netflix app or visit its website, it detects your approximate location using your IP address, and your content library automatically switches to the UK version. It’s not the worst thing to happen, as that library is pretty impressive itself. Still, it can be frustrating if you’re more interested in watching your favorite content.
That’s where a VPN comes in to change your virtual location. When you connect to a server in the US from the United Kingdom (or anywhere else), it masks your real IP address and assigns you an American IP address instead.
That way, you could be in London, Manchester, or Glasgow, and still enjoy It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and other exclusive Netflix US content as if you were physically across the pond.
How to Watch Netflix US in the UK
You must download and install a quality VPN service for a chance at streaming American Netflix in the UK. It’s a straightforward process with a few simple steps. The best VPN for Netflix is ExpressVPN.
Step 1: Choose a Reliable VPN
Select a dependable VPN service with servers in the United States. Because streaming is data-intensive, you want to ensure it comes with high-speed infrastructure to stream content without buffering. Don’t neglect other significant factors in your research, such as unblocking capabilities, privacy and security, and user experience.
As mentioned above, the most reliable VPN for enjoying Netflix’s US catalog in the UK is ExpressVPN.
Step 2: Download and Install the VPN
Visit the VPN provider’s official website, sign up for an account, and choose a suitable subscription plan. Pay for the plan using any of the payment methods available.
Next, download and install the VPN app on your preferred device. Most highly-rated providers offer clients for computers, smartphones, streaming TVs, set-up boxes, and other devices. They also come with installation guides, which can be helpful if you’re a newbie.
Step 3: Connect to a US Server
Launch the VPN app and log in with your account credentials. On the server list, locate and select a server located in the United States. Click the Connect button on the home screen to establish a connection.The provider will then assign you an American IP address.
Step 4: Access Netflix US
Make sure your VPN connection is active before proceeding to launch the streaming app or visit its website. You’ll now have access to the extensive content library on Netflix US, including exclusive shows, movies, and documentaries. Enjoy your favorite titles just as if you were in America.
Best VPNs to Watch Netflix US in the UK — Our Top 3 Picks
VPN services constantly make bold claims about unblocking Netflix US in the UK and other countries. However, for the vast majority of providers, the actual results tend to be inconsistent at best. More often than not, you’ll be stuck with the local content library, or the streaming service detects your VPN use.
To make it easier for you, we tested dozens of services to arrive at the three best options. Here they are:
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN boldly crowns itself “The Best VPN for Netflix,” and we’re inclined to agree. The British Virgin Islands VPN is arguably the highest-rated provider overall, after all.
It offers an expansive network comprising 3,000+ servers across 105 countries. ExpressVPN doesn’t disclose how many of those are US-based servers. However, if the stable and reliable connections are anything to go by, its American collection is quite substantial.
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for streaming. It doesn’t come with specialized servers for the activity, but there’s no need for them. The VPN easily unblocks Netflix US and any other library you throw at it. Other streaming platforms are not left out, so you can switch to Hulu, Disney+, and more. And when you take a trip outside the UK, ExpressVPN lets you watch videos on BBC iPlayer as well.
What’s more, it’s the fastest VPN in the market, thanks to high-performance infrastructure and Lightway, its proprietary tunneling protocol. As long as you have a speedy internet connection, to begin with, you’ll not experience buffering or interruptions.
ExpressVPN also prioritizes privacy and security. Using the industry standard AES 256-bit encryption, it keeps your online activities and data protected from snoops. Plus, it enforces a strict no-logs policy, features an automatic kill switch and leak protection, and offers a range of advanced tools.
A single subscription lets you stream American Netflix on up to eight devices simultaneously. ExpressVPN’s highly responsive customer support is available 24/7, in case you encounter any issues.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN’s well-earned reputation rests on a solid foundation of privacy, performance, and reliability.
You get a massive collection of servers to choose from, with 5,800+ in 60 countries. That’s not a very expensive location spread. But on the upside, the provider offers nearly 2,000 United States-based servers across 16 locations, providing more than enough connection options within the country.
NordVPN is one of the fastest VPN services on the market. Thanks to its exceptional connection speeds, binge-watching content in 4K (and even higher) resolution and beyond is a lag-free experience. And that’s in spite of the distance between your device and the US-based server.
Unblocking Netflix US in the UK with NordVPN is hassle-free. It reflects that ability with other catalogs, so you can switch to Netflix Japan, Australia, Canada, and much more. On top of that, NordVPN is just as adept at circumventing the geo-fences on other popular streaming services and online platforms.
The Panama-based provider offers military-grade encryption to keep shady operators from making sense of your private information. Other features in its arsenal include system-wide and app-specific kill switch, RAM-only servers, and IP/DNS leak protection. It also comes with a handy ad blocker that doubles as malware protection.
One subscription only works with six devices at the same time, but it’s a good thing the VPN has router support for all your local network devices. We found its customer support always available and helpful, so you can contact them at any time.
3. CyberGhost
It takes more than excellent user experience and attractive pricing to make it to this list of the best VPNs for unblocking US Netflix in the UK. Still, CyberGhost earns its place because it has much more under the hood.
For instance, the VPN’s network dwarfs those of the other alternatives — combined. Of its over 9,700 servers spanning 100 countries, 1,200+ are spread across eleven United States locations.
CyberGhost offers streaming-optimized servers, aptly categorized under a “For streaming” tab. They are fine-tuned for various platforms, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and Disney+. While performance on regular servers can be inconsistent, connecting to any of its dedicated Netflix US servers seamlessly unblocks the service.
What’s more, with a high-bandwidth infrastructure and efficient protocols like WireGuard, you’ll enjoy rapid connection speeds more often than not.
CyberGhost does not compromise your online security and privacy. The provider has a strict no-logs policy that’s rigorously audited by an independent third party. Your data remains inaccessible to potential hackers thanks to bank-level encryption. Plus, it includes features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection for enhanced privacy.
The VPN supports a wide range of gadgets and permits up to seven simultaneous device connections. There’s around-the-clock access to a responsive customer support team through live chat and email, so you can reach out any time for help or information.
Can You Use a Free VPN for Netflix US?
A VPN must check several boxes before it counts as “working with Netflix.” It must not only let you watch specific shows or movies but an entire content library or libraries. Sorry, free VPNs that claim to work with Netflix US, but partial access doesn’t equate to proper functionality.
Besides, if you encounter a “VPN or proxy error,” it’s a surefire sign that the provider has been detected and blocked.
We mention these because you’ll likely face them if you try using a free VPN for Netflix. The primary issue: Netflix is constantly working hard to block VPNs, and free VPNs are simply not up to the task of unblocking geo-restricted content at that level.
Here’s what you’ll face if you manage to get past the geo-blocks to use a free VPN for Netflix:
- Slow speeds: Free VPNs typically offer snail-slow connection speeds, guaranteed to make streaming Netflix a frustrating experience.
- Limited data: Try binge-watching a season of Bojack Horseman when your free VPN only gives you 10 GB of data a month.
- Malicious logging practices: Some free VPNs log your personal information and sell it to third parties. It’s a serious privacy concern that negates the essence of using a VPN in the first place.
With all said and done, you want to stick to premium providers. A cheaper option like CyberGhost won’t blow a hole in your wallet, and you’ll be able to enjoy all the movies and shows available on Netflix in the US while you’re in the UK.
Conclusion
Geographical restrictions stop you in your tracks when you want to stream the content you prefer on American Netflix in the UK. Luckily, a virtual private network (VPN) provides a dependable workaround.
The trick is to use a VPN service with excellent streaming capabilities. We recommend ExpressVPN because it effectively unblocks the exclusive library while offering reliable performance and robust privacy and security functionality. You’ll get a 49% discount and three extra months if you purchase its annual plan now.
FAQs on Accessing Netflix US in the UK
Can I use any VPN to watch Netflix US in the UK?
Not all VPNs can reliably unblock US Netflix because of the streaming platform’s powerful VPN-blocking technology. We recommend using one of the VPNs mentioned in this article, as they have a proven track record of successfully bypassing Netflix’s geo-restrictions.
Do I need a separate Netflix US account to use a VPN in the UK?
No, you don’t need a different account. Your existing Netflix account will work. The VPN will change your virtual location, making it appear as if you’re connecting from the US.
Will using a VPN affect my Netflix streaming quality?
It depends on your VPN service. Premium providers, like the ones mentioned in this article, offer fast and stable connections, so you’ll experience high-quality streaming with minimal buffering. However, the speed also depends on your local internet connection quality.
What do I do if Netflix detects my VPN?
If Netflix detects your VPN use and blocks access to the American library, try connecting to a different server within the US. Top VPNs typically offer hundreds of servers there, and some are even specialized.
