Best Netflix Hacks you Should Be Using in 2021
With over 200 million subscribers worldwide, Netflix has proved itself one of today’s best streaming services. Whether you are looking for the latest original movies, want to chill with an old favorite, or just want to check out the latest buzzed-about series, Netflix has everything to keep you hooked to your screen all weekend long.
As a Netflix enthusiast, you want to make sure you are getting the best out of your subscription. After all, you are paying a whole $17.99 per month for the Premium package, so it’s only fair that you enjoy every single one of your streaming sessions. By employing the latest hacks and tweaking your settings here and there, you are able to optimize your Netflix experience.
Let’s look at some of the best Netflix hacks you should be using in 2021 to improve your viewing experience.
Download to Watch When Offline
One of the greatest hindrances when it comes to streaming is the need for a high-speed internet connection. But, not with Netflix as the service allows you to download select films and TV shows to watch on the go without the need for Wi-Fi.
Note that offline download is only allowed on mobile platforms, so you’ll have to download the mobile app for this.
Watch Netflix During Off-peak Hours for Excellent Video Quality
One of the best ways to enhance the video quality of whatever you are watching on Netflix is to stream during off-peak hours (like late at night or early in the morning). It has been proven that video quality and speed improve considerably during times when fewer people are watching. So take advantage when you can, and binge-watch your favorite show when others are asleep or at work.
Use a VPN to Watch Geo-blocked Content
Did you know that the content you watch on Netflix is dependent on where you are geographical? This isn’t fair, why should you miss your favorite comedy shows such as The Thick of It, and I’m Alan Partridge, just because you are not in the UK?
There is a solution to this problem, though—a VPN(Virtual Private Network). A VPN will trick Netflix into believing that you are in a different country, giving you access to hundreds of new titles in the country you decide to connect to. Still, wondering how to watch Netflix with a VPN? Simply sign up for a reliable VPN and connect to an available and secure server, and you’ll be good to go.
Optimize your Streaming for Ultra HD or HD
How would you feel if you later realized that the subscription you are paying for includes Ultra HD or HD streaming, but you weren’t using it? This happens to many Netflix users who don’t check out their account settings. Visit Netflix.com/HdToggle and select “High” to set up your account for HD viewing.
Warning: HD videos use a lot of data (up to 3-7GB per hour), so if you are not using Wi-Fi, this might severely destroy your data plan.
Binge-watch with Friends
If you are looking for something to keep you and your long-distance friends and family connected, video sharing apps such as Kast and Netflix Party are perfect alternatives to Skype and FaceTime.
For Kast, you just need to download the app onto your mobile device or desktop or start it in Chrome, and you will be able to open a window where you can stream your favorite movies and shows while connecting with friends and family.
As for Netflix Party, click “NP” after downloading the extension. The “NP” will produce a unique link that you can send to whomever you want to invite to the “party.” Once everyone has joined, a text chat sidebar appears to allow you to chat away as your movie plays.
Watch Netflix Originals for Free
This is more of a hack for people who don’t own a Netflix account. Netflix has a Watch Free collection with a handful of original content that is entirely free to stream without logging into an account. You don’t even need to register! Simply visit the Watch Free page on either Android or desktop and choose whatever series or movies you are interested in.
Note that the offerings change from time to time and that only the first episodes of the series are provided, as this is just meant to captivate you so that you can sign up for a subscription. a
Netflix is unquestionably one of the best streaming services. But that doesn’t mean it is perfect. The trick is to tweak your settings a little and use certain tools like a VPN to improve your user experience.
Dhruval Patel
Sara Wales