Netflix is available in most countries, but – as you’ve no doubt noticed – the content library you can view varies widely depending on your location. American Netflix subscribers visiting Australia will find that they cannot access their American library and are, therefore, unable to watch certain shows and movies that are available to watch on American Netflix. This can be frustrating for viewers traveling abroad. But don’t worry, we’ll tell you how you can get American Netflix in Australia or anywhere else; you just need a VPN with US servers.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts all of a device’s internet traffic and routes it through a middleman server in a location of your choosing. By connecting to a VPN server in the US, you will gain a US IP address and spoof your location, making Netflix think that’s where you are. This allows American travelers to regain access to their usual content library (and any other geo-restricted content) during a visit to Australia.
Unfortunately, not all VPNs will work, as Netflix is notorious good at detecting and blocking most connections from VPN servers. However, we’ve put together a list of VPNs that still work to access your Netflix US library from anywhere. We go into more detail on each of them below, but if you are short of time, here is a quick summary.
The best VPNs to watch US Netflix in Australia:
- NordVPN Our #1 pick for watching US Netflix in Oz! It boasts blazing-fast speeds, a fantastic security offering, strong everyday usage potential, and almost 2,000 US servers. It even comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Netflix. - Surfshark A reliable and versatile budget VPN option. Solid speeds, a strong privacy focus, and the ability to stream American Netflix anywhere. No connection limit.
- IPVanish Favored by Kodi users for its remote-control-friendly apps. Allows unlimited devices to be connected and works with a range of streaming platforms.
- ExpressVPN Works well with US Netflix and most other streaming services from Australia. Has a smart DNS service and an app for routers. Comes with built-in obfuscation.
- ProtonVPN: Makes it as easy as possible to stream American Netflix in Australia. Large server network with a global presence. Doesn’t compromise on security.
- PureVPN: A secure, no-logs provider that works exceptionally well with Netflix and other major streaming platforms. Lets you connect up to 10 devices simultaneously and obfuscates traffic by default.
- CyberGhost Beginner-friendly VPN with easy-to-use apps. We were impressed by the vast server network and servers optimized for individual streaming platforms.
- PrivateVPN Provides secure access to most streaming sites. Allows port forwarding and has a stealth mode for connections from restrictive countries. Lots of customization options.
Many VPNs claim to work with Netflix but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock Netflix and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
How to watch American Netflix in Australia: 5 simple steps
If you’re in Australia and want to regain access to the TV shows and Movies available on US Netflix, you need a VPN. Using a VPN to gain an American IP address is the easiest solution to accessing American Netflix in Australia, and it’s not hard to do. Just follow the five simple steps below, and you’ll be streaming your favorite content in no time.
Here’s how to watch American Netflix from anywhere in 5 simple steps:
- Sign up for a suitable VPN. We recommend NordVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app, making sure to choose the right version for your device.
- Connect to a VPN server in the US to gain the US IP address necessary to access American Netflix.
- Start watching US Netflix. Thats it! You should now be able to stream your home content library without issue.
- If it’s not working, try clearing your browser’s cookies before reloading the page, or try a different US server. If you struggle to find a server that works, contact your VPN’s customer support team; they should be able to point you in the direction of one that works with US Netflix.
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How we select the top VPNs for Netflix USA
Many VPNs simply won’t work with Netflix — they don’t have the ability to bypass Netflix’s stringent VPN detection methods. In this case, you’ll see a proxy error that says: “Whoops, something went wrong. Streaming error. You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again.”
To save you from wasting time and money figuring out which ones work, we’ve put together this list of VPNs that work reliably with Netflix — as well as scoring highly in the other areas outlined below.
- Speed: We tested how fast each provider’s US servers were in a series of speed tests.
- Netflix region access: We scored providers on how many Netflix regions they were able to access, as well as their US server availability.
- Security and privacy: We used 16 different criteria for calculating VPNs’ security and privacy scores.
- Ease of use: We used 10 individual metrics for evaluating how easy each VPN service was to use.
- Value for money: We used eight unique criteria for establishing which providers offered the best value for money.
We get into the details of our testing process later in the article. We’ll also explore any significant results.
The best VPNs for Netflix USA: at a glance
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for American Netflix.
| No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | Proton VPN | PureVPN | CyberGhost | PrivateVPN |
| Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | ProtonVPN.com | PureVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | PrivateVPN.com | Ranking for American Netflix | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Total number of servers | 6,000+ | 3,200 | 2,200+ | Undisclosed | 3,800 | 6,500+ | 11,000+ | 200+ | Streaming services | Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime, Disney+, ITV Hub, BBC iPlayer, and more | Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+ and others | HBO Max, ITV Hub, BBC iPlayer, and others | HBO, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and others | HBO Max, ITV Hub, BBC iPlayer, and others | HBO Max, ITV Hub, BBC iPlayer, and others | Hulu, Disney+, ITV Hub, and others | HBO Max, ITV Hub, BBC iPlayer, and others | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best deal (per month) | $2.99 74% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months | $1.99 87% OFF + 4 months free | $6.49 Best MONTHLY deal | $4.99 SAVE: 61% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $4.49 SAVE 55% on a 2-year plan | $1.99 85% off the 5-yr standard plan | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
The best VPNs for watching US Netflix in Australia
At Comparitech, we’d never recommend a VPN that we haven’t used and extensively tested ourselves, so the following reviews are based on our first-hand experiences. Let’s take a closer look at the providers that impressed us.
Here are the best VPNs for watching US Netflix in Australia:
1. NordVPN
Dec 2024
works with US NetflixTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.4 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Netflix region access: | 8.2 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| US Speed: | 10.0 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top choice VPN for accessing American Netflix from Australia or anywhere. Operates more than 6,000 servers worldwide, including almost 2,000 servers in the US, so it’s sure to have one that lets you securely stream Netflix USA in Australia.
We wanted to know how fast NordVPN’s US servers were, so we carried out several speed tests while connected. For reference, our base connection speed was 249.13 Mbps.
As you can see from the chart above, NordVPN was fast across the aboard. It’s average speed was 210 Mbps, which was more than double the average speed of the other providers that we tested. This means that you won’t have to worry about lag or buffering interrupting your streaming.
As well as Netflix, this service works with Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer, among other platforms.
This is a true no-logs provider that ensures you have a secure connection at all times. It utilizes military-grade encryption with perfect forward secrecy. A kill switch and leak protection keep your data safe inside the encrypted tunnel. NordVPN is known for its extra security features, including automatic wi-fi protection and the option to direct your traffic through two VPN servers (double VPN).
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. You may connect up to six streaming devices simultaneously.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want access to as many Netflix libraries as possible
- You want the fastest US connection speeds available
- You want simplified Tor access
- You’re connecting from China
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You do a lot of torrenting and want port forwarding
BEST VPN FOR US NETFLIX:NordVPN is our first choice for streaming American Netflix. It offers almost 2,000 servers in the US, strong privacy and security features, impressive streaming and download speed, and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review here, or check out the video review below.
2. Surfshark
works with US NetflixTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.2 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Netflix region access: | 8.81 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| US Speed: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.7 / 10 |
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark makes it easy to securely access the U.S. Netflix content library from anywhere, even Australia. In fact, most of its non-US servers automatically redirect you to the American version of the site. This means that travelers in Australia can get a lower-latency fast internet connection than if they had to use a US-based server.
Those who do use a US server will no doubt be glad to know that Surfshark is fast. In our tests, it consistently achieved speeds in excess of 190 Mbps. Note that our base connection speed without a VPN was 246.61 Mbps.
On average it was 90 Mbps faster than the combined average speeds of the other providers that we tested. This is an excellent result, and means you’d have little trouble streaming 4K video while connected.
Surfshark clearly emphasizes security. It keeps your data private at all times using a kill switch, protection against DNS, IPV6, and WebRTC leaks, and 256-bit strong encryption. There’s also a built-in malware scanner and ad blocker. Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, so once connected, you’ll be almost entirely anonymous.
Apps are available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android. Surfshark allows an unlimited number of simultaneous connections.
Buy this VPN if:
- You have a relatively slow internet connection
- You want to share an account with friends and family
- You have a device running Linux
- You want a low-cost subscription
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a VPN that isn’t based in a Nine Eyes country
BEST BUDGET PICK:Use any Surfshark server to securely stream American Netflix from anywhere. This inexpensive yet security-conscious provider offers unlimited simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Surfshark review
3. IPVanish
works with US NetflixTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.8 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.4 / 10 |
| Netflix region access: | 8.0 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| US Speed: | 8.3 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.6 / 10 |
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested, and it can help you securely access U.S. Netflix from anywhere. Better still, it boasts solid speeds and lets users connect all of their devices at once. If you want to stream the highest quality video possible, this is the VPN for you.
To find out exactly how fast IPVanish’s US servers were, we carried out several speed tested over the course of a day. For reference, our base connection speed was 243.25 Mbps.
IPVanish performed solidly throughout the day, with an average overall speed of 149 Mbps. This compare favorably against the other providers that we tested, which had an average combined speed of 112.6 Mbps. Needless to say, IPVanish is fast enough for streaming US Netflix in 4K.
Security is a priority, and IPVanish uses 256-bit encryption with perfect forward secrecy. There’s also protection against leaks, and desktop apps have a kill switch. No logs are maintained whatsoever.
Any number of simultaneous connections are permitted, and there are apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. Manual configuration for routers and Linux systems is possible too.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want easy access to US Netflix and other streaming services
- You want to share an account with friends or family
- You’d find a SOCKS5 proxy useful
- You want a low-cost subscription
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re connecting from China
- You want a provider based outside of the US
SECURE EVERY DEVICE:IPVanish is great for families and multiple connections. Works with US Netflix and many other streaming platforms. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full IPVanish review.
4. ExpressVPN
works with US NetflixTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.3 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Netflix region access: | 8.8 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.2 / 10 |
| US Speed: | 5.7 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.4 / 10 |
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN has numerous servers in the US that work with Netflix USA. In total, it operates more than 3,000 servers in 105+ countries.
Besides Netflix, ExpressVPN can securely access Stan, HBO, and Amazon Prime Video, and if your chosen platform doesn’t work right away, you can contact a live chat support representative at any time of day to be directed to a working server.
To find out how fast the provider’s US servers were, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected. You can see the results below.
ExpressVPN achieved decent enough speeds. While certainly not the fastest, they are nevertheless fine for streaming high quality video interruption-free — that is, provided you have a good connection speed to start with (ours averaged 250.02 Mbps).
You can expect tight security and privacy from this VPN. Desktop apps come with a built-in kill switch, and all apps have leak protection, so your data is always safe. 256-bit encryption with perfect forward secrecy comes as standard. Privacy is a priority for ExpressVPN; you can pay with Bitcoin, and your personal information is never logged.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Linux, and certain wi-fi routers. With a monthly plan, you can connect five devices at a time, and with longer-term subscriptions, you can connect up to eight devices.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to stream US Netflix on VPN-incompatible devices
- You’ve never used VPN software before
- You routinely need to evade VPN blocks
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a cheap subscription
- You might want to connect more than eight devices simultaneously
STREAM US NETFLIX:ExpressVPN is great for streaming. It prioritizes your privacy, offers secure, private connections, apps for most streaming devices (including routers). Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
5. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.9 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.8 / 10 |
| Netflix region access: | 6.8 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
| US Speed: | 7.4 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 7.4 / 10 |
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN is a fast service with a network spanning 112 countries. It’s a reliable way to regain access to your usual services during a trip abroad, working flawlessly with Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, to name but a few.
The provider is fast, too. We tested its US servers at several points over the course of a day and it averaged 130.4 Mbps.
This makes it fast enough for streaming US Netflix, as well as carrying out other activities such as gaming or torrenting.
ProtonVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections. Not only that, but it has a built-in ad-blocker meaning you can spend less time waiting around and more time catching up on your favorite shows. Support staff are on hand 24 hours per day over live chat.
Worried about your privacy? Don’t be; ProtonVPN uses industry-approved encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch to ensure that your online activities can’t be monitored. In fact, even the company doesn’t know what you get up to because it follows the strict no-logs policy (which has been independently verified by external auditors).
You can even take advantage of the port forwarding and split tunneling features if you need a little more control over your connection. Plus, there are special Secure Core servers for tasks where anonymity is vital, though these may be too slow to stream reliably.
ProtonVPN has its own Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS apps. Users also have the option to manually install it on a wide range of different routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want access to a range of streaming platforms
- Security and privacy are important to you
- You want lots of customization options
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re on a tight budget
- You’re connecting from China
ADVANCED SECURITY:ProtonVPN gives you plenty of ways to customize your security setup. It’s fast too, and works exceptionally well with most popular streaming platforms. Paid subscriptions include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Still have questions? Find answers in our full ProtonVPN review.
6. PureVPN
Works with US NetflixTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.8 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Netflix region access: | 6.5 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.7 / 10 |
| US Speed: | 6.6 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.1 / 10 |
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN offers access to more than 6,000 servers worldwide, with many of these in the US. As such, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone hoping to stream their usual Netflix catalog while on vacation.
To find out how fast its US servers were, we carried out several speed tests while connected. You can see the results below.
The provider was very quick for the first two tests, but less so for the third (it’s not uncommon to hit upon a slow server now and then). Even with the slower server, the provider achieved an average speed of 115.7 Mbps. This is fast enough for interruption-free streaming, though a little slower than the other providers’ combined average speeds.
PureVPN does a fantastic job of keeping you connection safe thanks to its uncrackable encryption, kill switch, and built-in leak protection. It can even obfuscate your traffic, hiding the fact that you’re using a VPN at all. If you run into any problems, customer support staff can be reached at any time via the 24/7 live chat service.
This provider has a strong commitment to transparency, proving its no-logs claims by being audited four separate times. We would prefer it if tracker-blocking was included as standard instead of only on the Plus and Max plans, however.
PureVPN apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Alternatively, you can follow manual setup instructions to run it directly from your router.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want streamlined access to US Netflix and other platforms
- You’re looking for a cheap long-term subscription
- You regularly need to bypass VPN blocks
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a built-in ad-blocker
- You want access to multi-hop servers
EASY TO USE:PureVPN has plenty of US servers that work great with Netflix. Does a great job of keeping you safe and its apps are designed with beginners in mind. Best of all, every plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PureVPN review.
7. CyberGhost
works with US NetflixTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.8 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Netflix region access: | 7.4 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| US Speed: | 4.0 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is an excellent streaming VPN for novices and makes it easier than ever to stream U.S. Netflix from Australia. CyberGhost has a vast network of over 10,000 servers in 100+ countries, including over 2,000 in the US.
Plus, instead of just choosing a server location and hoping for the best, you can select a Netflix-optimised server from the list and let CyberGhost do the work for you. Other supported streaming channels include Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer.
CyberGhost’s US servers are fast enough for streaming high quality video. In our tests, they achieved speeds averaging 29.7 Mbps.
This is fairly slow compared to the other providers in this list, though still more than fast enough to meet Netflix’s minimum requirement for 4K streaming (which is 15 Mbps).
CyberGhost has plenty of security and privacy features, so you can feel safe knowing your data won’t be visible to anyone but you.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. You can connect up to seven devices at the same time.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want servers optimized for particular streaming platforms
- You don’t have much experience with VPN software
- You want access to a vast server network
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want features such as port forwarding or multi-hop servers
- You’re connecting from a restrictive country such as China
GREAT FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost is easy to use and has a huge number of US servers. Great privacy with zero logs and DNS leak protection. Works with many popular US streaming platforms including Netflix USA. Subscription plans come with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
8. PrivateVPN
works with US NetflixTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.4 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.6 / 10 |
| Netflix region access: | 6.7 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.6 / 10 |
| US Speed: | 4.9 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.2 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN has a smaller network than some of its rivals but doesn’t let that dissuade you. It works with a huge range of services, including US Netflix, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.
In our speed tests, PrivateVPN exceeded the 15 Mbps minimum speed requirement for streaming Netflix in 4K.
However, if you have a much slower base connection speed than ours (which was 244.87 Mbps), then you might want to opt for one of the other providers in this list.
PrivateVPN meets all of our privacy and security standards. Servers that work with Netflix US are clearly labeled in the app, so you won’t need to ask customer service which one to use. Live support is available should you encounter any issues, though.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. You may connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a cheap subscription
- You want port forwarding
- You’d appreciate strong customer support
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You have a slow internet connection
- You want access to a large server network
STRONG ON PRIVACY:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. No problems with US Netflix, and allows up to 10 devices on the same account. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
Finding the best VPNs to watch US Netflix – our methodology
Before recommending VPN providers for use with US Netflix in Australia, we evaluate them in the following areas:
Speed
Accessing US Netflix typically requires connecting to a US server first. This is only really useful if the ensuing connection is fast enough for streaming. We tested providers’ US server speeds three times: once in the morning, once at noon, and once in the afternoon. We then averaged the results.
Tests were carried out on a virtual machine that had been rate limited to 250 Mbps. This figure was chosen because it’s the median average of fixed broadband speeds in the US, and thus most likely to reflect real-world experiences.
As you can see from the above, NordVPN was the fastest provider overall. Surfshark and IPVanish were also notably quick.
Netflix region access
We scored each VPN on the number of Netflix libraries (including the US) they were able to access. We then scored them on how many US server locations they had. This number was used in lieu of the actual server count (which many providers are reluctant to share).
We combined these scores to give us an overall idea of how easy it was to access US Netflix with each provider.
Surfshark scored the best VPN for changing Netflix region, though ExpressVPN and NordVPN also hit the sweet spot in terms of server access and Netflix compatibility.
Security and privacy
We looked for VPNs that offer not just the basics, but also plenty of advanced privacy and security features. We used the following criteria to evaluate them against.
| VPN Provider | Activity logs | IP logs | Encryption | Authentication | Keys | Perfect Forward Secrecy | DNS leak protection | IPv6 leak protection | Private DNS | Torrenting allowed | Kill switch | HQ outside 9 eyes | Obfuscation | Supported protocols | Anonymous payment options | Additional security features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security |
| NordVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-384 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Own protocol | Multiple | Yes |
| Surfshark | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Mobile app-level | No | Stealth | Secure protocols only | Multiple | Yes |
| IPVanish | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | None | No |
| ExpressVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Mobile app-level | Yes | Automatic | Own protocol | Multiple | No |
| Proton VPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 2048-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | One | Yes |
| PureVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Some platforms | Yes | Automatic | Secure protocols only | One | No |
| CyberGhost | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | Multiple | No |
| PrivateVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 2048-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Some platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | One | No |
We assign a score to each criteria so that we’re left with an overall score out of ten. This makes it easier to compare providers.
If security and privacy are important to you, then NordVPN and Surfshark are your best options. They combine strong encryption, audited no-logs policies and highly effective obfuscation. ProtonVPN is also an excellent option.
Ease of use
VPNs vary in how easy their services are to use. To find those that are the least likely to induce headaches, we first evaluate them against the metrics outlined in the table below.
| VPN Provider | Apps for all major platforms | Novice-friendly design | Ease of signup (reviewer to score) | Router support | Unblocking consistency | Task specific servers | Network | Ease of cancellation | Interface | Feature parity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use |
| NordVPN | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
| Surfshark | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
| IPVanish | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | Standard | Great | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
| ExpressVPN | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | App | Generally works | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | All features available on all versions |
| Proton VPN | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | Takes some getting used to | Most features available on all versions |
| PureVPN | Yes | Yes | 3 | App | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
| CyberGhost | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
| PrivateVPN | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Generally works | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
Scores for each metric are combined to produce a total score out of ten, which we can use to conveniently compare providers.
NordVPN provides the easiest to use service overall, with a simple sign-up process and neatly designed apps. IPVanish and ExpressVPN are great alternatives.
Value for money
Getting a cheap subscription is all well and good, but it’s not much good if, for example, it doesn’t cover all of your devices. To more accurately measure value, we used the following criteria.
| VPN Provider | Money-back guarantee | Connection limit | Subscription terms | Sale frequency | Monthly pricing | Lowest price | Free trial available | Student discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money |
| NordVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
| Surfshark | Yes | Unlimited | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
| IPVanish | Yes | Unlimited | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
| ExpressVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | $15+ | $5+ | Yes | Yes |
| Proton VPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | $5+ | Yes | No |
| PureVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | No |
| CyberGhost | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
| PrivateVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | <$5 | Yes | No |
Each of these ten criteria is given a score, which we combine to create an overall score out of ten. We can then use this to meaningfully compare providers.
Surfshark will get you the most bang for your buck overall, closely followed by IPVanish. NordVPN and CyberGhost are also good value for money.
Read more Netflix articles here:
Watching American Netflix in Australia with a free VPN
We know free VPNs are tempting, but your chances of watching US Netflix in Australia with a free VPN are very low. Most free VPNs just don’t work with Netflix at all due to the streaming platform’s stringent anti-VPN protocols. You might get lucky and find one that does, but since Netflix routinely blocks VPN servers, even if you find one, it won’t last long. Paid providers, on the other hand, have the resources to stay one step ahead.
Plus, free VPNs are heavily limited. Due to server congestion or bandwidth restrictions, they’re often much too slow to stream high-quality video. You may encounter data caps or waiting queues, which can seriously disrupt your streams and lead to a frustrating experience.
Finally, free VPNs can end up harming your privacy rather than helping it. To make money, many of them track your online activity and sell your personal data to third-party advertisers. Some VPN apps even carry malware payloads or are used for botnet scams.
In short, we recommend avoiding free VPNs and paying a few dollars a month for a quality paid provider. However, if you are set on trying to watch American Netflix in Australia for free, here are some tips on how to do so safely.
How to watch Netflix US in Australia for free (safely):
- Opt for a VPN that offers a free trial. These range from 1 – 7 days, so it could be enough if you’re just going away for a few days.
- Make the most of the money-back guarantees of the providers we’ve listed here. They range from 30 to 45 days, so they should be enough to cover you for a vacation or short work trip. Unlike free trials, you do have to pay upfront but can at least rest assured that if you’re not 100% happy with the service, you can claim a full refund. Check out our step-by-step guide to claiming a full refund from NordVPN to see how simple it is.
- Try a reputable VPN with a free basic level – such as ProtonVPN. Proton’s free tier has limited servers, but these include two in the US that have worked with Netflix in the past – there is no guarantee that they will still, but it’s worth a try before you pay for a subscription!
Frequently asked questions
Is streaming American Netflix from overseas legal?
Anybody traveling abroad who wants to regain access to their usual Netflix content library in America can do so completely legally with a VPN. As a paying subscriber, you are entitled to watch your account, and a VPN is a legal tool that helps you do so while you are on vacation. This is why Netflix does not actively attempt to single out subscribers who use a VPN.
That said, Netflix states in its terms of service that accessing a foreign catalog is against the rules of its policy. This is why the streaming giant uses technologies to discover and block VPN IP addresses associated with VPNs. It does this to comply with the agreements it has entered into with copyright holders.
Although nobody we know of has been prosecuted for watching Netflix from abroad, we recommend that you check Netflix’s policies to understand the rules yourself. Nothing in this article constitutes legal advice, and it is important that you do your own research before deciding to use a VPN to bypass geo-blocks.
How Does Netflix Block Content?
Netflix geo-blocks content by looking at the IP address of the device you are using to watch it. If your IP address indicates that you are accessing Netflix from a country other than the one you signed up for, then you will be shown a message telling you that the show or movie is not available in your location.
The content is blocked in order to comply with licensing agreements that stipulate which countries particular films and television shows can be aired in. For example, a movie that is licensed to be shown on Netflix in the United States might not be licensed for airing in Australia.
This is why using a VPN to change your IP address is the best way of bypassing Netflix’s geo-blocks.
Will Netflix know that I am using a VPN?
Over the years, Netflix has put a lot of time and money into detecting VPNs. They’ve gotten very skilled at identifying the subtle signs of VPN usage, and only a few VPN providers have managed to stay ahead of them by constantly improving and innovating.
Providers that don’t have the resources or time to keep finding new workarounds are inevitably detected and blocked. This is why you can’t sign up for any old VPN or free VPN and expect it to work. If you do, you’ll probably come across the dreaded Netflix error message:
“Whoops, something went wrong. Streaming error. You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again.”
If this happens, you need to disconnect, try a different server, contact your VPN customer service team for help, or sign up for a different VPN with a proven ability to access Netflix.
Thanks for the run down. Another great service is Unlocator. They work with US Netflix and since it’s a Smart DNS service it’s easier to use for devices that don’t support VPN.