3 Best Free VPNs for Netflix That Actually Work in 2025

Netflix has become highly effective at detecting and blocking VPN connections. Most free VPNs struggle to get around these restrictions, which leads to error messages and playback failures. Many also can't maintain high-quality video streams or protect online data effectively.

After testing 50+ services, we identified the few free VPNs that still work with Netflix. These VPNs can securely access at least a few Netflix libraries and maintain good speeds for HD streaming from anywhere.

Below, we delve into the pros and cons of the most reliable free Netflix VPNs. Keep in mind that all free options have some restrictions, whether it's limited data allowances or fewer server locations. If you want dependable performance, unlimited bandwidth, and no data caps, a premium VPN is a better option.

Best Free VPNs for Netflix — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — Most Reliable Netflix VPN With Fast Speeds for 4K Streaming

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested July 2025

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN delivers fast, reliable speeds thanks to its unique Lightway protocol. Lightway is built with less code, so it's quicker than traditional protocols and keeps your connection stable even on congested networks. During tests, our speed on nearby servers only dropped by 12% (from 202.74 Mbps to 179.40 Mbps). We could watch Meg 2 on Netflix US without added buffering.

All its UK servers work seamlessly with the UK Netflix library

All servers automatically conceal VPN data (obfuscation) as regular internet traffic, to prevent detection and blocks. This makes it possible to access over 20 Netflix libraries from anywhere securely. Most free VPNs we tested only worked with 3 to 4 regions at best. Our international team easily streamed content on popular libraries like the US, UK, and Japan, as well as regional catalogs like Argentina and South Korea.

ExpressVPN's MediaStreamer feature also sets it apart from free alternatives. This Smart DNS tool lets you watch Netflix on devices that don’t typically work with VPNs, such as older smart TVs and gaming consoles. And it’s also easy and quick to set up. I followed the guide on ExpressVPN's dashboard and had it working with my PS5 in under 5 minutes. However, MediaStreamer primarily works with US and UK content, and some Australian services.

The main drawback is that ExpressVPN isn’t exactly free. But it offers a 7-day free trial on mobile (Android and iOS) and a 30-day money-back guarantee*. I tested the refund process through 24/7 live chat and got my money back after answering a couple of questions.

Useful Features

• Router app. Easily install ExpressVPN on a compatible router using its custom firmware to secure every device you use for Netflix, including smart TVs, game consoles, and streaming boxes that don’t support VPN apps directly. This way, you'll exceed the up to 8 simultaneous device connections the VPN offers.
• User-friendly apps. The VPN is compatible with all major operating systems, with apps that look and work almost identically. It also offers native apps for Apple and Android TV.
• Browser extensions. ExpressVPN’s Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi extensions make it easy to watch Netflix securely from your browser.
• Split tunneling. You can route only your Netflix traffic through the VPN, while other apps use your regular connection, like food delivery apps. This helps keep streaming speeds fast and reduces congestion since not all traffic gets encrypted.

2. Proton VPN — Unlimited Free Data for Non-Stop Netflix Streaming

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Proton VPN >

protonvpn.com

Proton VPN is one of the few truly free VPNs without data caps for uninterrupted Netflix streaming. This means you can watch your favorite shows securely without worrying about running out of data mid-episode. During our tests, we binge-watched 12 hours of Six Feet Under in HD without any restrictions or slowdowns.

None of the servers we connected to were overcrowded

The free plan includes servers in 6 locations, including the US, Romania, and Japan. But you can't manually choose your server location — instead, the app automatically connects you to what it considers the optimal server based on factors like server load. There's a Change Server button, but it comes with a cooldown timer that restricts how often you can switch. This means you might not get connected to your desired location.

Proton VPN’s free servers deliver reliable speeds for streaming Netflix without delays. Although speeds dropped by 36% on US servers, quite a bit more than ExpressVPN, we still clocked 157Mbps average download speed, more than enough for 4K streaming. Servers in Japan actually reduced our speeds by only 18% and we could watch Tokyo Swindlers on Netflix JP in crystal-clear quality.

Like most free VPNs, Proton VPN's free plan limits you to one device at a time and only a few Netflix libraries. However, the premium version lets you connect multiple devices at once and use the entire server network. This makes it possible to improve streaming reliability and safely access more Netflix regions from anywhere.

Useful Features

• IPv6 leak protection. Prevents your real IP from leaking through IPv6 traffic, helping you stay hidden from Netflix’s detection systems and avoid location-based errors.
• Great device compatibility. Proton VPN works smoothly on all major devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more, so you can watch Netflix on your favorite devices. You can also install Proton VPN on your router, which is rare for a free VPN.
• No ads. Unlike many free VPNs, Proton VPN doesn’t interrupt your streaming experience with pop-ups or in-app ads, keeping your viewing session distraction-free.

3. Avira Phantom VPN — Large Server Network on Mobile Devices to Stream Netflix Securely

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer More

Try Avira Phantom VPN >

www.avira.com

Avira Phantom has the largest server network of all free Netflix VPNs on this list, with servers in 36 countries, but only on mobile apps. If you want to watch Netflix on your desktop, you’ll be automatically connected to the nearest server, and you'll have no option to choose. During testing on Android and Apple smartphones, we had no problem connecting to various servers, including the US, the UK, and Japan.

The connection remained stable throughout the stream

With Avira Phantom VPN’s unlimited device connections, everyone in your household can securely stream Netflix at the same time without affecting other online activities. Unlike many free VPNs that limit you to a single device, this feature offers more flexibility if you use multiple screens. During testing, speeds remained decent even when we connected 7 devices simultaneously to watch Netflix UK.

On the downside, you only get 500MB of monthly data. This is enough for about 30 minutes of Netflix streaming. You can double your data allowance to 1GB by registering with your email, but that's still quite restrictive. You should consider upgrading to its paid option for unlimited Netflix streaming.

Useful Features

• Quick setup process. You can start streaming Netflix right after downloading the app — no registration or account creation is needed. Just install, connect, and start watching your favorite shows.
• Auto-connect. Avira Phantom can connect automatically whenever you join a WiFi network. This makes it easier to protect your data when streaming on public hotspots without having to remember to switch on the VPN manually.

Quick Comparison Table: Free Netflix VPN Features

The table below compares key features of the best free VPNs for Netflix. We've compared essential features like speeds, server availability, data allowances, and other key factors that affect your streaming experience.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Our Methodology for Testing Free VPNs for Netflix

To find out which free VPNs work reliably with Netflix, my team carried out extensive testing across different locations and devices. We tested multiple servers to check whether each VPN could stream Netflix without triggering proxy errors, location blocks, or playback interruptions. We streamed Netflix with the VPNs at different times of day to see how performance held up during both peak and off-peak hours.

We measured connection speeds to avoid added buffering and checked data limits to see how much Netflix you can actually watch. We also tested how easy it is to switch between servers and whether the apps work well on mobile and desktop.

Expert Tip: Most Free Netflix VPNs Aren’t Safe

Most free VPNs that claim to work with Netflix actually put your security and privacy at risk. That's why we thoroughly tested each VPN on this list to verify its safety. While they have some limitations, my recommended options won't compromise your data while streaming.

Here are the main risks we found with many free VPNs for Netflix:

• Data collection and selling. Many free VPNs monitor your Netflix viewing habits and sell this information to advertisers. Some even record your login credentials and payment information. Always check a VPN's privacy policy — if it's vague about data collection, avoid that VPN.
• Weak security features. Free VPNs often skip essential security measures like proper encryption and leak protection. This means your Netflix activity and personal information could be exposed to hackers or your ISP.
• Frequent blocklisting of IP addresses. Free VPNs often share a limited set of IPs among thousands of users. As a result, these addresses are easy for Netflix to detect and block. Even if a free VPN works at first, it may stop working quickly as more people use the same IP.
• Malware risks. Some free VPNs bundle malware with their apps that can infect your devices. For example, recent research found that some free VPNs, like MaskVPN and ShieldVPN, are often used by malicious parties to carry malware. Always stick to verified safe options.
• Hidden costs. Free VPNs like TurboVPN, HotVPN, and SnapVPN are owned by the same company, which is based in China. They collect extensive user data and monetize it in questionable ways, making their "free" service quite costly to your privacy.
• Ownership changes. Some free VPN apps often change ownership without clear disclosure, especially in app stores. As a result, you could end up routing your traffic through a provider you never agreed to trust.

The free VPNs on this list have some restrictions, such as limited server options or data caps. However, they still offer strong security and follow clear privacy policies. Instead of misusing user data, the VPNs I recommend earn revenue by offering paid upgrades.

We’ve done extensive research and testing on this subject — read our guide on free vs. paid VPNs to find out more.

VPN Not Working With Netflix? Try These Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, Netflix detects that you’re using a VPN and either only shows you Originals or the following error message:

We get this error message often while connected to free VPN services

Try the following steps if you see this message:

• Switch to a different server. Netflix may have identified and blocked the server you’re using. Disconnect and reconnect to another server in the same country.
• Clear your browser cookies and cache. Netflix can detect your real location through stored data. Clearing cookies and cache removes this information and can help you stream Netflix without errors.
• Update your VPN app. Outdated apps may not include fixes for Netflix’s latest detection methods. Install any available updates before trying again.
• Use a different device or browser. Some devices and browsers are more likely to trigger proxy errors. If you can’t stream on your smart TV, try using a laptop or tablet to see if it works there.
• Enable leak protection features. Leaks can expose your actual IP address to Netflix, causing an error message. Turn these settings on in your VPN app to keep your location hidden.
• Contact your VPN’s support team. Many services maintain a list of servers that work best with Netflix. Support can recommend the most reliable options or help you troubleshoot further.

If none of these steps solve the problem, consider trying another VPN that consistently works with Netflix libraries.

FAQs on Free VPNs for Netflix

Do free VPNs work with Netflix US, UK, Japan, and other libraries?

Most free VPNs struggle to work with Netflix due to the platform's strong VPN-detection system. They often get blocked, resulting in proxy errors. However, all the free VPNs on this list consistently work with Netflix US.

That said, premium VPNs with money-back guarantees generally offer better performance. They maintain extensive networks with frequently updated IP addresses, making it possible to access a wide range of Netflix titles without interruptions.

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

None of the free VPNs on this list ask for payment details when you sign up, and most of them don’t even require that you create an account. This way, you can start using them right away and don’t have to worry about getting surprised by any hidden charges.

On the other hand, the paid VPN on this list does require a valid payment method, but you don’t need to use a credit card. It accepts PayPal, cryptocurrency, and other options. For the 7-day mobile trial, no payment is required upfront as long as your app store has a payment method linked.

Will a free VPN give me fast speeds for Netflix?

Not many free VPNs offer the speeds needed for smooth Netflix streaming. Most come with limited server options, heavy user loads, and data caps that slow down performance. The free VPNs on this list performed better than most alternatives, but they aren’t perfect.

Plus, some ISPs deliberately limit the speed of connections passing through well-known VPN exit nodes, which is more common with free services. This can further reduce performance and make HD streaming unreliable. If you want consistent HD or 4K playback, a premium VPN is a better alternative.

Why does Netflix detect and block VPNs?

Netflix blocks VPNs to comply with licensing agreements and copyright laws. The platform doesn’t own all the content it streams — many movies and shows are licensed from studios or distributors for specific countries. These agreements require Netflix to control where each title is available. A VPN with obfuscation conceals VPN traffic, helping it avoid detection and blocking. This makes it possible to securely stream Netflix from anywhere.

Will I get banned for using a free VPN for Netflix?

It’s unlikely. Netflix doesn’t typically ban accounts that use a VPN. Instead, the platform focuses on blocking the VPN connection itself. If a VPN is detected, Netflix usually displays a proxy error message and restricts access to the content library until the VPN is turned off. No reports indicate that accounts have been permanently suspended just for trying to stream with a VPN, but using one may violate Netflix’s Terms of Use.

What's the best free VPN Chrome extension for watching Netflix?

Most free VPN Chrome extensions have trouble streaming Netflix, but a few stand out. Proton VPN offers one of the best free Chrome extensions for Netflix. It provides unlimited data, robust security features, and a simple setup process. The extension is lightweight, privacy-focused, and built by a trusted provider known for its no-logs policy and open-source transparency. It’s a great choice if you want a secure, no-cost way to stream Netflix directly from your browser.

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

Most free VPNs support popular devices like Windows and Mac computers, Android and iOS smartphones, and some tablets. In addition, premium VPNs offer apps for some routers, smart TVs, and streaming devices.

Even VPNs that are compatible with several devices usually have a limit on how many connections you can use at once. So, a VPN with router compatibility is helpful, so you can cover all the devices on your home network.

Here’s a breakdown of the best VPNs for Netflix and which devices you can use them on for streaming:

Get the Best FREE VPN for Netflix

Free VPNs often fail to deliver consistent Netflix performance. Many struggle to maintain consistent speeds, bypass VPN blocks, or offer enough data for uninterrupted streaming. To avoid frustration, it’s essential to choose one that can deliver reliable access and stable playback.

All the free VPNs on this list work well for Netflix and have been tested for speed and usability. However, they still come with limitations like data caps, fewer servers, and occasional buffering. For the most consistent experience, I recommend using ExpressVPN. It offers fast speeds, an extensive server network, and all servers offer obfuscation to securely access Netflix from anywhere without delays.