Free Netflix VPNs are they worth downloading and which ones are good Tom's Guide Skip to main content Tom's Guide is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's why you can trust us. Free Netflix VPNs are they worth downloading and which ones are good By Mo Harber-Lamond published 9 August 2022 A free Netflix VPN sounds too good to be true – but is it? (Image credit: Giordano Rossoni) Jump to: FREE NETFLIX VPNS Can free Netflix VPNs really compete with the best VPN services? In short, no. However, there are still a few options that are totally free to use that may get you access to blocked Netflix content. Free VPNs are typically restricted in one way or another – be it through data caps or limited advanced features. The data limit in particular makes them unsuitable for long-term Netflix streaming, but some are fairly generous. If you want to see the best free Netflix VPNs right away, click the 'Jump To' tab at the top of the page. If you want to learn a little more about how they work and what your options are, just keep scrolling. (opens in new tab)NordVPN – the very best Netflix VPN today (opens in new tab)As possibly the best-known VPN on the market, NordVPN (opens in new tab) makes a lot of claims when it comes to Netflix unblocking – and it absolutely delivers. With a wide range of locations supported, it's unbeatable right now, and it's also super affordable, too!View Deal (opens in new tab) How does a free Netflix VPN work A VPN – or virtual private network – encrypts and anonymizes your internet connection by sending it through its own servers. You can use them to browse anonymously and even make yourself appear to be in different countries. Netflix delivers different shows and movies to people living in certain countries, and you may find that what you want to watch isn't available – even if you pay for a subscription. Using a VPN can help you access this content, whether you're traveling abroad or just want to explore the world's TV. However, Netflix actively tries to stop this, and many free services can't fool the streaming provider. Using a paid-for service is always more reliable, but some free Netflix VPNs have been known to work. Also, we should mention using a VPN to access content does breach Netflix's terms of use, so you'll be doing so at your own risk... The downsides of free Netflix VPNs There's a magical combination of speed, server variety, and a large data limit that you need in order to make a great free Netflix VPN – and that's not to mention actually being able to unblock the streaming site to begin with. Sadly, there's not really a free service available that can cover all the bases. Every free service is limited in some way, but many fall at the first hurdle because they simply can't access Netflix. Even the best free security-focused VPN has drawbacks that make watching Netflix for free difficult or even impossible. However, there are ways to access geo-locked Netflix content with a VPN without paying a penny... (Image credit: Future) How can you watch Netflix with a VPN for free You've got three options. Firstly, you can take a chance with a free Netflix VPN. While Netflix is always updating and blocking more IP addresses associated with VPNs (and free services aren't kept as up to date as paid ones), some have been known to work. It's worth a try, as if it doesn't work you still haven't lost out. Then, if you've used up your data allowance or want a better service, you can upgrade to a paid plan or move on. Secondly, you can go with a service that offers a VPN free trial. These will give you full access for a short time – and that usually means thousands of servers and unthrottled speeds. You may have to input payment details, but you won't be charged for the duration, which is usually a matter of days. That's perfect if you just want to watch a couple of exclusive films over the course of a weekend, or if you want to access what you're used to when you're on a short trip abroad. Thirdly, you can take advantage of the money-back guarantees many providers offer. Ranging from 14 to 45 days, these do require you to make a payment, but you're guaranteed a full refund for any reason within the time period – and with these you can get the very best services without worrying about spending too much cash. Out of the three, a money-back guarantee provides you with the most flexibility and will allow you to stream overseas Netflix for a month before canceling or choosing to pay – plenty of time to trial the service, or give you cover for a mid-length holiday. FREE NETFLIX VPNS (opens in new tab)1. NordVPN – the biggest name is a safe bet (opens in new tab) NordVPN (opens in new tab) is probably on your radar, and it's definitely a paid service that's worth considering. With over 5,000 servers, great streaming power, polished apps and incredible encryption, Nord's great value too – and again, make a claim within 30 days and you'll get every penny back.View Deal (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)2. Surfshark – the best-value VPN on the market (opens in new tab) If you'r eon a budget but you're still considering a fully featured VPN, Surfshark (opens in new tab) is an excellent choice. For less than $2.50 a month you'll get unlimited connections, intuitive apps, really swift servers and world-class streaming support – plus a no-quibble 30-day money-back guarantee.View Deal (opens in new tab)