Watch Netflix without an active Internet connection It's one of the biggest desires of users who watch series and movies while traveling, in areas with poor coverage, or simply want to optimize their data plan. Disconnecting from the network and being able to access your favorite content is possible if you know how to properly use the app's download functions. Below, we explain how to do it. Comprehensive and updated how to use Netflix without Internet, which devices are supported, how to download, limits, key settings, and advanced tips, integrating all the relevant and practical information you need to know to watch Netflix offline like a pro.
Compatible devices to watch Netflix without Internet
Nowadays, Netflix offers support for offline viewing on multiple platforms, as long as you have the latest version of the app. This feature is designed for most users, but there are some requirements and restrictions depending on the operating system and device model.
- Android smartphones and tabletsStarting with Android 4.4.2, the official app allows you to download and play titles offline. Your device must be certified with Google Play Protect.
- iPhone, iPad, iPod touch: Minimum requirement: iOS 9.0 or later. The feature is fully integrated.
- Amazon Fire: Tablets with Fire OS 4.0 or later are compatible with the download option.
- PC Windows: Only using the Netflix app obtained via the Microsoft Store on Windows 10 (1709 or later) and Windows 11. Downloads not available in browsers.
- Chromebook and Chromebox: If you allow Android apps to be installed via Google Play, you can use the download feature.
Unable to download Netflix content on Mac natively, nor from web browsers on any platform due to DRM security reasons. For Mac users, there are alternative third-party solutions, which we explain below.
Furthermore, Some Smart TVs allow direct downloading to your internal storage, although this feature isn't yet widely available. Check if your model and app version include this option.
What you need to watch Netflix without Internet step by step
Offline viewing on Netflix requires meeting a few minimum requirements:
- Compatible device and updated app.
- Active account and logged into the app.
- Sufficient space in internal memory to store the content.
- Stable WiFi connection to download without consuming mobile data (recommended by Netflix).
The general process is simple: access your profile from the official app, identify the downloadable content, launch it, and access it from the "My Downloads" section when you're offline. It's important to note that Not all content is available for download by licensing agreements, but most original and popular titles have that option.
What happens to Netflix plans and downloads?
Download ability and limits vary depending on your subscription type.Here's an updated summary:
- Standard and Premium Plans (No Ads): Up to 100 active downloads per device simultaneously, limited by the number of devices allowed by the plan.
- Plans with ads: Maximum of 15 active downloads per month per device. The “Downloads for You” feature is not available.
- All profiles can access downloads, but in children's profiles you may find restrictions for certain titles due to age ratings.
Downloaded series and movies They are associated with the specific device and profile from which the download was made. They are not synced between devices, nor can they be transferred to other users or profiles.
How to Download Content on Netflix: A Detailed Guide
Below we show you the general procedure and advanced options depending on the type of content:
Download movies on Netflix
- Open Netflix while signed in.
- Find the movie you want. If it's available for download, you'll see a down arrow icon next to the “Play” button.
- Tap “Download.” The progress and size will appear in a bar or notification.
- Once finished, the movie will be available in the "Downloads" section. You can manage, pause, delete, or play it from here.
- When you don't have internet access, go directly to this section to view your saved content.
Download series on Netflix: individually, by episode or season
- Find the series that interests you and select it.
- You'll see a "Download" option next to each episode or a button for the full season.
- Download per episode: useful if you only want the chapters that interest you or to save space.
- Seasonal Download: With a single tap, all episodes of the active season will be added to the download queue.
- When the download is complete, go to “Downloads” and select the chapter you want to watch offline.
- If you're short on space, you can delete previously watched episodes from the same screen.
Tip: By default, Netflix will enable the “Download Next Episode” feature, which deletes the episode you have already watched (except the last one in a series) and automatically downloads the next one, which optimizes storage and facilitates marathon mode.
Advanced download management and configuration on Netflix
Netflix allows you to configure the download quality and storage location, as well as other useful functions:
- Open the Netflix app and tap your profile icon to go to “App Settings.”
- In “Downloads”, you can:
- Choosing quality: "Standard" (low quality and small files) or "High" (HD quality, larger files). Access to the highest quality depends on your subscription.
- Change storage location (only on some Android devices with SD).
- View available free space and manage current downloads.
- Enable/disable automatic downloads of new episodes.
Netflix's "Downloads for You" feature
Netflix has developed an additional feature called “Downloads for You” that allows you to automatically download personalized content based on your preferences. Ideal for users who often forget to prepare downloads before losing connection.
- Only available on ad-free plans and iPhone, iPad, and Android devices with the updated app.
- Downloads are only done via WiFi, never via mobile data.
- You choose how much memory to dedicate to this feature and can turn it on/off from “Settings > Downloads > Downloads for you.”
Thus, You will always have relevant titles that match your preferences. when accessing offline, without manual effort.
Netflix download limits, expiration dates, and renewals
- Active download limit: up to 100 per device on standard/premium plans and 15 on ad-supported plans.
- Date of Expiry: Most downloads expire between 7 and 30 days after they are downloaded, but After you start watching them, they are reduced to 48 hours. on many titles. When they expire, they must be renewed by connecting the device to the Internet.
- Annual download limit for the same title: Some content can only be downloaded a limited number of times per year. If you reach this limit, you'll have to wait for the deadline to reset.
- Automatic removal: If a series or movie is no longer available in the Netflix catalog, the download will also disappear from your device.
- Account cancelation: All downloads will be deleted if you close or cancel your subscription.
Additional options to watch Netflix offline on different devices
Watch Netflix without Internet on Smart TVs and other players
- Transfer via USB/external hard drive: Some users download content to their mobile phones/tablets (converting it to MP4 using third-party apps like MovPilot for personal use) and play it on smart TVs or media players by connecting the storage via USB.
- Using HDMI cable: If the device you downloaded the titles from has an HDMI output (or adapter), you can watch them on a big screen by connecting it directly to your TV.
- local streaming: Solutions like Chromecast or Fire TV allow you to project downloaded content from your mobile phone, even without an active network connection, if both devices are previously paired.
- Third-party applications for Mac: Programs like MovPilot allow you to download Netflix titles in MP4 format. Use them responsibly, for personal viewing only and in compliance with the terms of service.
Can I watch Netflix without internet on consoles?
The Netflix app on consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch does not allow direct downloading or offline viewingHowever, you can use alternative methods such as those mentioned (playback via USB, HDMI, or using external apps).
Essential tips to optimize your Netflix offline downloads
- Download always connected to WiFi to avoid wasting your mobile data. HD quality can exceed several GB per movie.
- Manage your space: Delete previously viewed downloads to free up memory from the “Downloads” section.
- Quality vs. space: Set the quality to low if you prefer to store more content on your device; use “High” for a better viewing experience on larger screens.
- Monitor expiration: Some titles can only be renewed by connecting the device to the network before they expire.
- Make sure you have system and Netflix updates up to date. to ensure compatibility.
- If you download partially, you can start watching offline. (on Android) even before the full download is complete.
Why can't I download anything on Netflix?
- License restrictions: Not all titles are available for download, especially some from third parties.
- Subscription plan: The ad-supported plan limits downloads.
- Limits reached: The maximum number of active downloads or annual attempts per title has been exceeded.
- Storage issues: If the device does not have enough free space, nothing more can be downloaded.
- Device Compatibility: Some older or non-Google Play Protect certified Android models may block the feature.
How to delete downloads and free up space on Netflix
From the “Downloads” section in the app, you can manage and delete titles manually. To delete all downloads at once, go to “App Settings” and click “Delete All Downloads.” free up space quickly.
Security technologies and protections for Netflix downloads
Netflix downloads are DRM protected. (Digital Rights Management), which prevents files from being shared outside the app or transferred freely. They can only be viewed within the official app and on the device where they were downloaded, to protect copyright. If you want to share titles, use Netflix-approved methods, such as group screen sharing (Netflix Party, Teleparty) while streaming, not offline.
Enjoying Netflix offline is a fundamental tool for those seeking entertainment while on the go, traveling, in areas with low coverage, or simply wanting to control their mobile data usage. The platform offers a complete, easy-to-use, and constantly improving system for downloading and managing offline content on multiple devices. Making the most of these features means being familiar with the limits, tricks, and potential issues, as you've learned in this guide. Always keep the app updated, check your plan and device restrictions, and discover the benefits of enjoying your favorite series and movies anytime, anywhere, even without an internet connection.