How to Watch US Netflix in China in 2024

Justice Ekaeze Last updated: May 1, 2024 Read time: 15 minutes Disclosure

Do you reside in China or have a business trip in the country? Whatever the case is, you can access any Netflix library in China using a VPN.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

China has banned multiple western media platforms, including the world-famous streaming giant Netflix. It uses a “Great Firewall” to prevent its citizen from accessing all the banned platforms (no secret). Therefore, if you want to watch Netflix in China, you must use a powerful VPN like ExpressVPN to help you bypass all the monitoring software and geo-restrictions quickly.

With 203 Million Netflix subscribers in 190 different regions and lots of region-specific libraries, it has gained immense popularity globally. However, in China, like most other famous media platforms, you cannot stream Netflix owing to a site ban by the government.

So, is there a way to watch Netflix in China? Yes, you can easily watch China Netflix and access all the global libraries using a VPN. A few VPN services work in China, but ExpressVPN has the best functionality for bypassing Netflix geo-ban. Also, it offers amicable speed and user security to ensure a seamless streaming experience. And above all, you can get a 30-day money-back guarantee to have a full refund if you change your mind. 

This article discusses how to watch Netflix in China and access all the Netflix media libraries, especially the most famous American Netflix, using VPN.

How to get American Netflix in China using a VPN

You can easily access American Netflix in China and all the other geo-restricted Netflix libraries with a reliable VPN. Wouldn’t it be great watching all the Netflix libraries without a single error code interrupting your streaming?

Here is how you get US Netflix in China using a VPN:

  1. Get a subscription to a highly-rated VPN service. We recommend using ExpressVPN as it is the best VPN for Netflix in China. Also, getting a longer-duration plan helps save more. So, go for a yearly plan that comes under $6.69 plus three months free.
  2. Now, download the VPN app on your PC or smartphone. You can also connect your VPN to your Smart TV or streaming devices like Amazon FireStick.
  3. Login to your account using your credentials.
  4. Now, connect to a US server such as US-Atlanta from the server list of available servers.
  5. Move to the Netflix app and try searching for any US geo-restricted title you want. 
  6. You may try searching for Supernatural, Ride Like A Girl, or The Borgias to see if your US Netflix is successfully available, as all of them are US geo-restricted.
  7. Happy binging!

Why do you need a VPN to watch Netflix in China?

China is one of those countries that has restricted Netflix in the region. The Chinese government puts a lot of restrictions on the media content its citizen access to control the effects of media. It uses “The Great Chinese Firewall” to block multiple regional streaming and communication media.

This firewall is very powerful, and only a few VPN services can bypass it. That is why you need a powerful VPN, like ExpressVPN, to help you bypass all the Netflix libraries you want. 

Moreover, the best part is that it will also obscure your internet presence, so you won’t need to worry about anything relating to the government monitoring your internet activity. 

Best working Netflix VPNs in China 2024

After testing more than 63 VPNs available online, we have finally figured out the best VPNs for Netflix in China. All the VPNs were tested for their Netflix unblocking capability, speed, and security.

Since American Netflix is the most popular Netflix library and has the highest traffic, we tested most VPNs to know their efficacy. However, multiple of them compromised user security and privacy by leaking private information. Moreover, some also leak DNS, which results in site blocks and unstable connections. 

So, here are the few VPNs that we find best for USA Netflix in China.

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN-new-features-block-logo-120-by-120-now

Best VPN to bypass even Great wall of China and stream Netflix without buffering.

Pros
  • No bandwidth limitation
  • Foolproof security
  • Liberty to choose the type of protocol
  • No log privacy policy
  • Accept Cryptocurrency
  • 24/7 customer support on live chat
Cons
  • A bit more pricey than other competitors
  • No Split tunneling is for iOS devices

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for watching US Netflix in China. It is powerful enough to bypass the robust scrutiny system of China and Netflix itself. The VPN offers foolproof security and allows you to select among 24 US servers (3,000+ global in 94 countries). 

While staying in China, we tested ExpressVPN for speed and unblocking capability for US Netflix. As soon as we connected to the Atlanta server, the American Netflix library was ready to stream. Also, over a 100 Mbps connection, the average download speed was 89.19 Mbps, and the average upload speed was 85.67 Mbps. This ensured a seamless streaming experience and no buffering, even in 4K mode.

Moreover, you can unblock other streaming platforms like other Netflix libraries, HBO, Hulu, Youtube, etc., while in China. ExpressVPN is compatible with most OS, including iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, etc. Also, you can download it directly on the router.

Pricing

A 15-month subscription with Express VPN costs just $80.04 ($6.67/mo + 3 months free). Additionally, you can receive a 30-day money-back guarantee to get a complete refund if you decide it’s not best for you.

Rating

ExpressVPN has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars based on its quality for Netflix, speed, and user compliance.


2. NordVPN

NordVPN

Top reliable VPN for accessing US Netflix in China.

Pros
  • Multiple servers worldwide.
  • Dedicated servers for streaming.
  • Updated regularly.
  • Complete incognito mode.
  • Stable and fast internet connection.
  • Internet kill switch.
  • Incredible privacy and security policies.
  • Accepts cryptocurrency for payment.
Cons
  • Torrent downloads glitches.
  • Non-user-friendly configurations of Open VPN.

NordVPN has one of the biggest server networks in the VPN industry. This helps you gain a lightning-fast speed without any bandwidth limitation, even during the time of high traffic at 4K resolution. Moreover, with this server diversity, you can access the content of most regions of the globe. 

We tried accessing the US Netflix library by connecting to the US-Atlanta server of NordVPN. The US Netflix library was ready to stream as soon as we connected to the US server. During the whole test run, the average upload speed was 85.34 Mbps, and the average download speed was 87.98 Mbps over a 100Mbps connection. This speed was fast enough to give us a buffering-free experience.  

Moreover, not only US Netflix, you can bypass geo-restriction on other media platforms such as NOS, HBO, Youtube, etc., using NordVPN. Also, you can install it on all the media devices having the most popular OS like Mac, Linux, iOs, Android, and Windows. 

Pricing

The two-year subscription to NordVPN comes under $13.25 per month with three months free. Also, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee to help you claim a full refund if you are unhappy with it. 

Rating

NordVPN ranks 4.0 out of 5 based on its exceptional speed, privacy control, and user compatibility.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA)

PureVPN

VPN has large number of servers around the globe even in China. It can bypass The Great Wall of China fluently.

Pros
  • Netflix Connection stability
  • Excellent unblocking ability
  • Fast speed on media streaming
  • Huge server network
  • Economical
  • 24-hour support on live chat
Cons
  • Do not work well with Fire TV and has an unreliable connection with Apple TV.

Private Internet Access (PIA) is the best budget-friendly VPN for Netflix in China. PIA has limited features, such as missing SmartDNS technology, Double VPN, etc. However, it will never compromise user security and privacy. So, this humble VPN successfully allows you access to most of the Netflix libraries, including US Netflix. 

We tested PIA for its unblocking capability of US Netflix. As soon as we connected to one of its US servers, we could stream US Netflix seamlessly. Also, the average download speed was 84.92 Mbps, and the average upload speed was 81.31 Mbps over a 100 Mbps connection. The speed was great for a seamless streaming experience.

Also, using PIA, you can unblock most of the Netflix libraries and other media platforms banned in China, including HBO, Hulu, Youtube, etc. Moreover, it is compatible with most OS so that you can install it on a PC, laptop, smartphone, Amazon Firestick, and even directly on a router.

Pricing

You can get the two-year plan for Private Internet Access is only $2.19 per month with two months free. Also, you get a 30-day money-back guarantee to get a full refund anytime during the first month. 

Rating

PIA ranks 3.5 out of 5 based on its unblocking capability, speed, privacy, and security protection.


Why can I access American Netflix content in China?

China has blocked the US Netflix in the region and the whole Netflix app. It uses the robust screening and monitoring software, the notorious Great Firewall, to prevent its users from accessing blocked applications, such as China Netflix, and control the content its citizens can stream over the Internet.

Therefore, you need a VPN to access content like American Netflix in China. A VPN will give you an international IP address and encrypt your connections. So, no one can now detect you are accessing the platform from China. However, only powerful and reliable VPNs like ExpressVPN can do so.

Why can’t non-residents access American Netflix content?

By screening the user’s IP address, Netflix prevents non-American citizens from accessing American Netflix. If your IP address doesn’t belong to a region approved by Netflix legalization as American, it will block you from using the platform.

That’s where VPN takes action. It gives you an American IP address, spoofs your original one, and allows you access the platforms like Americans. Now, you can watch all your favorite shows and movies while living in the US.

What is the difference between Netflix and iQiyi?

IQiyi is Netflix in China or the Chinese version of Netflix. With its 100 Million subscribers, it gives access to Chinese citizens to stream all the shows and movies without going to cinemas and theatres.

Moreover, you can also enjoy its free version, which comes with many advertisements popping up during streaming. However, you cannot access most of the western content on it. 

Like watching Netflix in China, you can stream iQiyi in any part of the world using a VPN.

How to watch American Netflix in China on your device?

After you have figured out the Netflix China strategy and how you can easily watch American Netflix here, you may get stuck with the device functionality. So, to make it easier for you, we have discussed the methods on the most popular devices to help you access all the Netflix libraries, including American Netflix, when in China using a VPN.

How to access US Netflix in China on a desktop

Using Netflix on Dekstop is pretty much straightforward. Here is how you do it.

  1. Download and install any of the VPN services mentioned above on your desktop. We recommend using ExpressVPN as it has a dedicated application for desktops.
  2. Run the file and launch the app. Now, connect to a US server from the options available on the home page. 
  3. Once connected, go to Netflix using your browser.
  4. Try searching for any US Netflix show and start streaming.

How to get Netflix US in China on Android?

Netflix has a dedicated application for Android. Also, most of the VPN providers have designed apps for Android OS. So, that’s how you get how to get Netflix China on phones:

  1. Sign up for one of the VPN services mentioned above using your browser. 
  2. Now, download the VPN from the Google Play store to your device. 
  3. Install it and run. 
  4. Now, sign in with your credentials to reach the home page.
  5. Connect to a US server from the list, such as US Atlanta. 
  6. Once the connection is complete, launch Netflix.
  7. Try searching for a US show and enjoy a seamless streaming experience.

How to access Netflix US in China on iOS

Netflix and VPNs are entirely compatible with iOS. Therefore, to watch US Netflix in China, follow these steps:

  1. Sign up for one of the VPN services mentioned above using your browser. 
  2. Visit the Apple App Store, download the VPN on your smartphone, and run the app.
  3. Now, sign in with the credentials you got at the subscription time.
  4. Connect to a US server from the list on the home page. You can change the server at any time by visiting the VPN app.
  5. Complete the connection and launch the Netflix app.
  6. Search for your favorite US Netflix show and have a hassle-free experience. 

How to watch Netflix US in China on Amazon Fire TV and Amazon Fire Stick

Here is how to watch Netflix in China on Amazon FireStick and Amazon FireTV:

  1. Subscribe for a VPN service that allows you to hide your IP address and operate a flawless stream wherever you’re supposed to be.
  2. Download and install the app on your FireStick device Sign in and connect to any US server. 
  3. Return to the FireStick home page. 
  4. Open the Netflix app. 
  5. Sign in and enjoy watching shows that were not available in China.

How to access US Netflix in China on Xbox or PlayStation

It’s fun to take your PlayStation or Xbox everywhere. So, if you have yours in China, you can watch American Netflix on it. Here is how you do it:

Xbox

Subscribe for a VPN service. We recommend using ExpressVPN as it works great with Xbox and has  MediaStreamer, a SmartDNS technology to help you stream content easily.

  1. Go to the “DNS settings” after successful installation. 
  2. To register your IP address, go to “IP Address Registration.” 
  3. You need to obtain your DNS address by visiting the Media Streamer page. Note the address for later use.
  4. Turn on your Xbox and open Settings
  5. Now, go to System and change your location to the United States.
  6. Navigate to Advanced settings and click on DNS settings
  7. Select Manual and enter the IP address you had already written down. 
  8. You can now view the changes when you access Netflix on Xbox.

PlayStation

  1. Subscribe to your VPN and login to your account using a browser.
  2. Select Set up more devices and then select PlayStation from the list of devices.
  3. Get your DNS address by visiting the Media Streamer page. Note the address for later use.
  4. Now, launch your PlayStation and navigate to the “XMB”.
  5. Open Settings and select Network Settings. 
  6. Go to Internet Connection Settings and select Custom.
  7. Enter the Media Streamer Address that you wrote down
  8. Click OK to save your selection and restart your device.
  9. Launch the Netflix app and start streaming American Netflix in China.

How to get American Netflix in China on Android TV?

You can access US Netflix in China on Android TV following these two methods:

Set up your router

  1. Sign up for a reliable VPN service and configure it on your router. We recommend using ExpressVPN as it works great on Android TV.  
  2. Now, log in to your account and connect to a server in the United States.
  3. Connect your Smart TV to the VPN-configured router.
  4. Press the Home button on your remote 
  5. Select Netflix and stream US Netflix libraries in China.

Setting up a Smart DNS

  1. Sign up for a VPN service. You can use ExpressVPN as it has a powerful MediaStreamer, a SmartDNS technology.
  2. Login to your account in the browser and navigate to the DNS settings page.
  3. Enter the Register your IP address option to register your IP address. 
  4. Go to the Media streamer page and note the DNS IP address. You will need it later. 
  5. Now, navigate to your Android TV’s settings and select Network status. 
  6. Visit the IP settings to input your DNS address in your DNS settings manually. Select OK to restart your television.
  7. Go to Netflix and start streaming the US library on it.

China Netflix’s best content

Here is the list of the best shows and movies list you can watch in China on Netflix:

Best shows to watch on American Netflix

Here are some famous American Netflix shows you can watch in China

  • Marvel’s Agent Of SHIELD
  • The Flash
  • Supergirl
  • Person of Interest
  • The Office
  • Parks and Recreation
  • The Tudors
  • Dexter
  • Twin Peaks

Best movies you can watch on American Netflix in China

Here is the recommendation of US Netflix binge-worthy movies:

  • Avengers: Infinity Wars
  • Incredibles 2
  • Black Panther
  • I’ll See You in My Dreams 
  • Ant-Man and the Wasp
  • Casino Royale
  • The Outpost
  • The 2nd
  • 50 First Dates

What if you have a VPN and still can’t access American Netflix?

There can be some problems that don’t allow you to use Netflix even when using a reliable VPN, and everything seems to work great. 

Do not worry; most VPNs allow you to talk to their customer support on live chat for assistance. 

However, you may also try looking into these fixes before working on anything else.

Try a different VPN protocol

  1. Relaunch the Netflix app or use a browser to access it. 
  2. Log out from your Google account to prevent it from displaying your actual IP address. 
  3. Now, Disable IPv6 on any Windows 10 device. 
  4. Open the “Command Prompt” and execute “ipconfig /flushdns” to flush your DNS. 
  5. If none of these alternatives work for you, you can try the ones mentioned below.

Clear your cookies and cache

The cookies and cache data store your private information. Sometimes the monitoring software takes your data from there and knows you are using a VPN. Therefore, they block you from the site.

To avoid this, clear your cache and cookies data and try reaccessing Netflix.


Connect to a different US server location

Sometimes one server may go down for some reason. Therefore, revisit your VPN home page and try connecting to another US server to re-establish the connection.


Get in touch with VPN customer support

You can contact VPN customer support to help you with anything relating to a VPN connection to your Netflix account. Most premium VPNs allow you to connect to them through live chat. It is the best way to understand the problem and suggest a personalized solution.


Can I watch Netflix in China with a free VPN?

No, you cannot watch Netflix in China with a free VPN. Free VPNs are usually not strong enough and can leak your private information. So, even if you connect to one and unblock Netflix, it will soon be detected and blocked again. 

So, invest in a reliable, powerful VPN like ExpressVPN to get the best VPN services for Netflix in China.

Chinese titles secret codes

Here are some Chinese title codes to watch new Chinese series on Netflix.

  • Crime 371
  • Horror 2231
  • Suspense 1296
  • Sci-Fi 140
  • Goofy Movies 4210
  • Romantic 3666
  • Critically-acclaimed Chinese Movies: 1671
  • Movies 3960

Chinese Netflix equivalents

Here are some Netflix equivalents in China:

iQiyi

As mentioned earlier, it is the Chinese version of Netflix. It has a lot of East Asian productions, including  Chinese and Korean movies and shows. However, after the Netflix partnership termination with iQiyi, you cannot watch western content on it.


Youku

It is the Chinese version of YouTube. Alibaba owns this platform and offers multiple famous action-oriented shows, dramas, and romance movies.


Tencent Video

It is more of a digital version of Blockbuster. It offers access to multiple movies; however, western content can still not be streamed.


Conclusion

Netflix is one of the best streaming platforms to watch all your favorite shows and movies in one place. However, since China has blocked this amazing platform for its citizens, you must use VPN to bypass all the restrictions.

We recommend using a trustworthy and powerful VPN like ExpressVPN for China Netflix. It is because not only do you have to access the geo-restricted content with great speed, but you also have to ensure foolproof security, which the free VPN services cannot provide.

We hope this guide helped you with everything you need to know to watch Netflix in China. Still, if you have any queries, comment below. We will be happy to help.

FAQs

Share this article

About the Author

Naturally addicted to Netflix and streaming in general, Justice Ekaeze is a freelance content writer who has worked for specialized content agencies such as Copypress and Skypublishers. Over the years, Justice has gained extensive content writing experience that helps readers.

More from Justice

Comments

No comments.